BALLON D'OR (3) made a strong late bid only to just miss as favourite last start over 1400m at Te Aroha. Nicely placed to play a major role. LANTERN WAY (6) was ridden quietly then made some inroads and finished 3.5 lengths away in fifth last time out over 1200m at this track when resuming from a spell. Steps up in journey today. Settles back early but winds up late. Will be tough to hold out. TRUCE (5) scored last start at this track to make it two wins from four starts this campaign. Has winning claims again based on that latest effort. DUNEAGLE (1) has progressed nicely in his last couple of runs. Finished second at New Plymouth Raceway two starts back then scored by a long neck last time out over 1350m at Wanganui. Has his share of ability. Hard to beat in this suitable race.