RELEASE THE BRAKES (8) progressed nicely last start to finish a close third over 7f at Benalla after missing the placings at the previous appearance. Has the ability to produce another positive result. LUCKY COMPASS (3) finished sixth two runs back at Geelong then improved last time out to score by 0.8 lengths after being in contention on the bend over 7½f at Ballarat Synthetic. Won't find this as tough so he is sure to prove hard to beat again. GAGO (1) did well last time to finish sixth over 6f at Pakenham after he got a long way back in the run. Won't be bothered by this longer journey. Likely to play a major role. SLATE RIPPER (2) returned from a lay-off two weeks ago when he was beaten 5.5 lengths into 12th over 6½f at Swan Hill. Fitter so anticipating a better run this time.