MISSILE STORM (3) has started this campaign very strongly and he usually hits his peak third-up. He sat on the speed and was too good as favourite at Bunbury 13 days ago and now drops back in trip. Needs some luck from the draw but is trending the right way. MEAN MACHINE (8) was strong first-up before going into Listed company last start where he was beaten 2.5L. Chris Parnham hops back in the saddle now and the rise in trip appears to suit. Drawn well and will prove hard to beat. GAGE ROADS (6) closed off strongly first-up over 1200m at Ascot and should appreciate the rise in trip. The wide draw stings, but if he runs up to the fresh performance he should be right in the finish. GOLDEN DORE (7) dipped last start over this trip as favourite though his prior form was better than that. Lightly raced and can bounce back to his best. CLOSE AT HAND (4) just missed last time out and looks ready for the rise in trip now. Worth including.