MERRIAMA (12) franked a trial win in the spring with a game third on debut in the spring before being put aside to mature after a weak effort at Avondale. She will be a lot stronger now and resumes with a quiet trial under her belt. She draws the pole and should be ready to rumble. GOLDEN POINT (3) has been late scratched from a race at the barriers since his last start here nearly 8 weeks ago. He was given the all clear by stewards after trialling in front of them, and he can't be taken lightly. Each way value. MR CHOW (14) has yet to race up to his good trial form, but he is getting stronger, and the Kurtis Pertab stable is on fire at the moment. Include in all top 4 combos to be safe. PLATINUM PATCH (2) can be forgiven for a poor effort on a very testing Te Aroha track just over 3 weeks ago, and he is better judged on his third at Matamata before that, when running on late for third. Stick with him. REQUISITE (1) had excuses last time out, and he can make amends. Include.