OVERVIEW: SPIRITED LASS (7) was the popular elect last Saturday at Melton but galloped in the concluding stages looking all but the winner when trying to find a gap. There’s no question she’s an unreliable type, but when she trots, she displays more ability than the opposition here. With Herbertson aboard and a few more options from the draw than last time she can recapture the form from over a month ago when she was going for three on the trot. STRAIGHT TO THETOP (3) can mix her gate speed it seems which makes her difficult to map, but she does look as though she shouldn’t be too far off the top end over the short trip. She seems to sprint better off a slower tempo. BUSLIN BRODY (2) was racing well last month, but his last couple haven’t been up to the usual standard. The soft draw gives him options and is open to improvement. THATS DUDLEY (4) did a really nice job for the new stable last time out, winning off a long break at Geelong. This is slightly more challenging but is worth keeping safe. Several minor place chances in RIGHT OF REPLY (1), KITTY CASH (6), DEJAY DEX and MAJESTIC CHARMA (9). BACK: SPIRITED LASS (7) – 3 units (win)