AQUA VERNAL (5) is close to breaking through after two consecutive placings since returning from a spell, the latest coming when second over 2400m at this track. Going up a level this time but she is in the right form and looks poised to break through. BRAVE ROCKER (2) ran fourth at his latest appearance over 3600m at Nakayama, finishing 1.2 lengths from the winner. Hitting his straps now and looks the obvious threat. PEPTIDE SOLEIL (8) returns from a spell of nine weeks. Was safely held at the only appearance last prep when seventh over 1600m at Tokyo Dirt. Has the pace to be in a prominent position from the outset. Should be competitive. VOLANTE (9) got the cash over 3000m at this track at his most recent appearance on November 2. Makes plenty of appeal on that form.