Not much has been in favour of IM THE FALCON (1) in recent appearances, barriers working against him in the last two starts and a tough trip when working wide on the track three starts back. The effort last week was good on the clock behind LEAP TO FAME after starting from gate 6 and with the improved alley, can turn his fortunes.

TIMS A TROOPER (5) was exposed early before sliding back and was then last as the field settled in single file behind LEAP TO FAME. Producing some sizzling closing splits despite finishing unplaced, he will appreciate the absence of his stablemate and can throw down the challenge.

HECTOR (8) has the mapping favours as the lone runner off the second line to pick his own path. A winner two starts back in a PB mile when powering over the top, he can be stalking the speed.

DASHING (4) takes the step up to this grade off the back off successive victories, the latest when dictating from gate 1 and posting a 5m margin on the wire. He has podium claims.

SELECTIONS: IM THE FALCON (1), TIMS A TROOPER (5), HECTOR (8), DASHING (4)
SUGGESTED BET: IM THE FALCON (1) to win