MERCIAN (1) returned from a six-month spell with a dogged win in a 1000m Sunshine Coast maiden five weeks ago. Has his share of weight but looks to be in for a good prep and should handle this line-up. RED RED WINE (7) is back from a 23-week break and has transferred from Victoria to the Matthew Dunn stable. Ran a few placings at or around this trip on the country circuit last prep. Two recent trials should have him ready to run well. WORTHY ESSGEE (8) registered his twelfth minor placing in 26 runs when beaten narrowly over 1000m at Goondiwindi recently. Proven at this level and should be cherry ripe at the third run back from a short break. OUTWITTED (6) worked home late without threatening first-up at the Gold Coast. Goes over an extra 100m today and has placed 2/2 when second-up. DARKLEY (2) gets a pass mark for his recent return to racing at Grafton after a 69-week lay-off. Likely improver.