Narrowly defeated last time out in the G1 Manikato S. (1200m) behind Rebel Dane (Aus) (California Dane {Aus}), the Matthew Dale-trained Fell Swoop (Aus) (Not A Single Doubt {Aus}) currently holds top billing in the betting markets for the final Group 1 of the Flemington carnival, the A$1-million Darley Classic (1200m).
Third and fourth, respectively, in the Manikato S. Japonisme (Aus) (Choisir {Aus}) and The Quarterback (Aus) (Street Boss), both Group 1 winners over the track and distance, look more than capable of factoring in the finish.
Returning with a third at Group 2 level after more than a year away from the track, the Mick Price-trained Lankan Rupee (Aus) (Redoute's Choice {Aus}), once ranked the world's champion sprinter, aims to resurrect his racing career and from the middle of the line gets every opportunity.
The winner of last season's G1 BTC Cup (1200m), 5-year-old Malaguerra (Aus) (Magnus {Aus}) resumed from a spell last start, and after a wide passage, worked home well for second at Group 2 level. Third that day was Fell Swoop, who went on to almost secure his maiden Group 1 victory at his very next start.
Last-start G2 Caulfield Sprint winner Our Boy Malachi (Aus) (Top Echelon {Aus}) is a winner of 19 of his 26 starts, but is yet to taste victory at the elite level. Unknown at the track, the 8-year-old has five wins from eight attempts at the trip and the Team Hawkes-trained galloper is a serious contender.
The up-and-coming runner of the field who could surprise is the impressive last start listed winner Spieth (NZ) (Thorn Park {Aus}), trained by Bryce Heys. A winner of five of his eight starts, including down the Flemington straight, has two wins at the trip and will be charging late if conditions suit.
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