Port Macquarie

Tricky race with a couple of handy first starters engaged. VIACONI (1) resumed in much stronger company when a plugging fifth over 1100m at Canterbury on December 20. Kept fresh and strips much fitter now from the inside draw. SWEET PATRIOT (8) raced with distinction in town last campaign and has clearly come back well after ploughing through the heavy going when second over 1000m at Nowra on January 12. Placed second-up in the past and has genuine top-three claims. FORMAL (3) brings strong form lines here and shouldn't be a maiden for long. Has to overcome the tricky draw but this looks easier. NEW FRONTIER (4) Snitzel colt out of Fleet Week fitted with four good trials on debut for the Doyle yard. Stable rider aboard and he looks like one of the leading players.