BARANI (7) showed good early speed then led into the straight last start before fighting on to finish third, beaten 1.75 lengths, over 1400m at this track. Well-placed and will take catching. THE FINAL WORD (2) was in a different class last time with a dominant all-the-way win by 2.75 lengths at this track over 1400m. Fitter and the blinkers come off. Top chance. MR JONES (4) improved sharply on his fourth two starts back at this track with success as public elect over 1400m at this track a week ago, getting home by one length after being prominent at the bend. Nicely placed to play a pivotal role. READ (5) has put together back-to-back placings, the latest when 2.25 lengths away in second over 1400m at this track. Likely to be about the mark again.