PUGLIA (8) is back after a break of four months. Went close to a maiden win before the layoff, finishing second at her latest appearance over 1600m at Moonee Valley. Ran sixth in a recent trial at Avoca. Well placed and happy to have her on top. THE MUFFIN MAN (3) finished third, beaten 3.5 lengths, when resuming from a spell last start over 1300m at this track after he did his best work late. Likely improver with winning claims. THINXZO (4) should be peaking now after finishing second over 1400m at Bendigo last time at the third run of the campaign. Will find this tougher but is capable of featuring. KISSED EARTH (5) came home powerfully and got up for third when resuming over today's trip at Pakenham last start. Will spot them a start but watch for her late.