LITTLE THIEF (3) was runner-up here in a trial before finishing a fair eighth in a stronger field at Ellerslie on debut there nearly 7 weeks ago. He has had some gear changes since then, including the addition of blinkers, and with an extra furlong on offer, he can finish a lot closer this time, if not win. HORRIE (1) followed up a fresh third with another third here nearly a month ago, both times on a heavy track. He cops a wide gate this time, but will still go close to taking this out, even on a firmer surface. BALLS OF FIRE (2) needed his first run back from a spell at Pukekohe 8 days ago. He usually improves with racing and will have the pole position here. Each-way value. MERRIAMA (14) won a trial prior to finishing third at Matamata nearly 3 weeks ago when making her debut. She cops a wide gate, but can still run into the money. GOTA HUNCH (7) struggled in the very heavy ground at Pukekohe last start. He will be spot-on third up, and he can replicate his debut third here.