THE PERFECT ONE (2) settled back from a wide draw last start but finished strongly to win by nearly a length fresh up over 1150m at Te Aroha. He is living up to his reputation after being patiently handled, and he can now take the next step immediately. EL VAQUERO (3) missed the placings two runs ago and then struggled up in class on an unsuitable heavy track over 1200m at Riccarton Park three weeks back. He is better than that, and with a drop in class, he is well placed to bounce back. POPPY'S GIRL (4) has found it hard to win another race, but has not had much recent racing. She impressed fresh up when finishing a close second, just half a length off the winner over 1200m at Whanganui last week, and can go one better here. ALBAROSSA (1) hasn't raced since finishing well back in a stronger field over 1400m at Ellerslie on June 7. He would have matured over his spell and would not be a shock winner here. FANCYPANTS (5) ran a better race for second 2 weeks ago at Whanganui. Go again.