MINTAKA LAD (13) knuckled down strongly to get within 0.8 lengths of the winner in third last start over 1200m at Doomben. Has a solid record at this journey with four wins from 13 starts and shapes as a key contender. BRERETON (1) finished out of the money but was not too far away when resuming last start over 1000m at this track. Usually performs well with that run under his belt. Can go on with it. SWISS EXILE (3) missed the placings two starts back when resuming then ran a better race and finished a long neck away in fourth last time out over 1200m at Randwick after being prominent at the corner. Finds a suitable assignment and can take this out. MANHOOD (2) produced a reasonable run when returning from a break last start over 1200m at Doomben, finishing 5 lengths from the winner in sixth. Has a solid record at this venue with three wins from nine starts. Has good early speed so should take up a forward position. Not to be discounted.