SPEEDIE O'REILLY (5) meets the right sort of field third up from a spell, and he will be better after finishing fourth at Tauherenikau a month ago in his first start over ground. He cops a wide gate, but this field is not strong, and he is the one to beat. MALIBU (1) has improved in his last couple of starts with a pair of solid efforts for second, including his last run at OTAKI 3 weeks ago when finishing runner-up by a neck. He is overdue, and can go one better here. STEADFAST (9) won a trial prior to battling into eighth place over a mile at OTAKI on Boxing Day. He is bred to improve over a middle distance, and is worth another chance in this. Stick with him on an each-way basis. EARLY ONE'S (2) caught the eye with a big late finish for third over a mile at OTAKI 3 weeks ago. The extra 500m is ideal for his peak run, and he will pick up a win at short notice. VANRIO (4) only peaked on his run late over this trip when finishing fourth at OTAKI last time out. Each way value here.