MANAVENDRA (4) improved sharply on his sixth two starts back at Bunbury with success over 1920m at Albany a week-and-a-half ago, getting home by 2.25 lengths after being in the firing line on the turn. It doesn't get any easier but on his best form he is one of the chief contenders. ROYAL LAW (10) started at $5 last time and ran below expectations, finishing fifth and beaten 4.5 lengths at Ascot over 2200m after being prominent at the turn. Meets some better types this time but a big run is on the cards. BUTTERFLYROCK (7) drifted well back before winding up strongly to score an effortless 2.25 lengths win over 2131m at this track last time out. Among the main hopes. BAMBUN BOY (5) produced a reasonable effort when second last start over 2200m at Belmont Park. That followed a win at Ascot the start prior. In contention this time.