Hot early pace is on the cards with The Octagon, Ballarino and Jabberwocky matching motors. THE OCTAGON (1) hails from the Alec Laird stable. He has finished third in his last two starts over this distance. He meets the right field and with Gavin Lerena in the saddle, he should be the one to beat. OBSIDIAN (5) was in need of his debut effort here over 1160m on the Standside course. It must be noted that the horse that finished second that day has come out and won since. He will love the rise to 1600m and should be right in the finish. CLIFFIE CLAVIN (4) ran a fair race over 1500m on this course last start. It must be noted that the horse that finished second that day has come out and won since. He is coming along the right way and can figure in the finish this time. JABBERWOCKY (3) showed some improvement before his spell. He would have strengthened up during his time off the track. If not in need of this outing, he should have more to come. Each way value.