Forget the last start of NIAGARA SKY (2) when got back & couldn't get into the race at Matamata over 1400m. Game 3rd here over 1550m the start bafore and drops in class for this. Can bounce back. SILKDEGREES (3) has put in sound efforts this track & trip last 3 starts, running on strongly last two. A major player here. ROCKY BALBOA (5) has placed 2 of 4 runs on this track and has fought on gamely over shorter trips both runs after a spell. Long time mdn but not out of this. The last 4 runs from ARKADUS (6) have all been at this trk/trip and he has made ground well the last 3. Another long time mdn but this isn't overly strong. BASILTHEGREEK (8) was never a factor at Hastings last start but he did run on well on the Awapuni synthetic the start before. Has place claims here.