THE MANAGER (4) started at $8.50 last time on the back of a win at Tamworth two starts ago but was below his best, finishing fifth over 1400m at Bathurst. Likely improver with strong prospects. TAVANASIA (1) missed the frame last time when eighth at Orange. That followed a run of two wins on end. Has the speed to overcome the draw. Best form puts him right in this. NAVAL OFFICER (6) finished out of the money two starts back then was beaten 1.75 lengths when fourth over 1200m at Coonamble a week-and-a-half ago. Worth noting Dylan Stanley goes aboard. Nicely placed to feature in the finish. LYSANDER (7) finished 2 lengths behind the winner in second over 1650m at Moruya last start after lifting strongly to score two back. Can sneak into the finish.