IN THE DARKNESS (6) started at $3.10 last time and ran below expectations, finishing sixth and beaten 2.5 lengths at Strathalbyn over 1350m after being in the firing line on the turn. Well placed and there is no reason she cannot find winning ways. LUCKY COMPASS (1) scored by 0.6 lengths two back at Mt Gambier then missed the frame latest when sixth at Geelong. Gets some weight relief this time. Rates a leading contender. WHISTLER GIRL (10) is experiencing a long win drought, extended last start when fifth over 1700m at Warrnambool after being in contention on the turn. Has the talent to return to the winners' list. TIMEONLEES (5) was out of the money when resuming from a spell last start over 1400m at Terang, beaten 2.75 lengths. Fitter this time will prove harder to beat.