3 minute read

The Nigel Blackiston trained Scorpio has displayed good ability in her short career to date and appears very well placed to return to the winner's stall at Echuca this afternoon.

Lining up for just her fourth start, the daughter of High Chapparal won very well on debut before confirming that figure at Sale when second.

Tried in tougher company at Flemington last start Scorpio was heavily supported and while unable to land the prize her performance held merit.

Dropping back noticeably in grade, Scorpio should acquit herself well, when due to line up in the ninth event.

She looks set to relish the step up to 2100m and unlike a majority of her rivals she possesses plenty of scope for further improvement.

Using Timeform weight adjusted ratings she measures right up on best form and although drawn awkwardly, she gets some added weight relief with Dylan Dunn's claim.

Likely to adopt a forward position, she should prove very hard to get past in the straight.

The Ciaron Maher trained Tramell simply got too far back at Mornington last start when unable to work home into the finish.

Her performance to break her maiden status two back leaves her well placed and she clearly deserves another chance.

Much like Scorpio she is only lightly raced and remains open to further improvement.

From the wide draw she is likely to settle just off midfield and a return to her best form should see her right around the mark.

The John Symons and Sheila Laxon trained Denoninator was a complete forgive run on the heavy track last start and has to be kept safe in this affair.

Another who drops back noticeably in grade the son of Denon has put up form easily good enough to win this event and has drawn to receive all the favours.

Casey Bruce links back aboard (placed 5/8) and Denoninator has placed in two of three attempts over this trip.

If able to reproduce his best he looms as a major threat.

Of the rest the Patrick Payne trained Rebel Force appears the next best, following a fair performance at Echuca first up.

He will no doubt strip fitter for the run and is another who should appreciate the step up in trip.

Rebel Force has placed in four of his last nine attempts and holds solid claims from the inside draw.

Good luck and happy punting.