Track: Soft Weather: Clear

Six have accepted for Sunday’s Group 1 Underwood Stakes at Sandown.  The Annabel Neasham trained Zaaki holds favouritism in early betting from I’m Thunderstruck who stormed home to win the Makybe Diva Stakes at Flemington last start.  The Feehan winner Mr Brightside will have fans, as will Alligator Blood who can lead from his inside draw.

1. Zaaki (5)

Back to defend his title after winning this race last year.  More competition this time around but he returned well to win the Tramway at Randwick and is one of our best weight for age horses.  Top chance.

2. I’m Thunderstruck (6)

Super first up from the back in the Memsie at Caulfield.  No luck in a key stage in the Makybe Diva but still managed to reel in Alligator Blood who looked all over a winner with 100m to go.  First time out to this trip but there is no reason to doubt him running it.  Major player.

3. Alligator Blood (2)

Had no luck first up at Caulfield, then was nabbed right on the post by I’m Thunderstruck at Flemington – brilliant ride Tim Clark who comes down to ride again here.  Will make his own luck up on speed, just question whether he can hold off the challengers at 1800m?

4. Mr Brightside (4)

Just keeps improving.  Won the Group 1 Doncaster Mile at Randwick in April.  Returned to win the PB Lawrence at Caulfield, then bolted in last start at Moonee Valley in the Feehan.   This is tougher but he draws well and is a better horse than the last time he raced under Group 1 weight for age conditions.

5. Mo’unga (3)

Hugh Bowman comes down from Sydney to ride.  Improved second up to finish third in the Makybe Diva but was still over three lengths from the winner.  Not sure how well he is going.  Consider for multiples.

6. Nonconformist (1)

Disappointed second up after an encouraging first up effort in the Memsie.  Need to see him again before recommending.

The following are the top 4 selections for this year’s race.

The track was rated as Good 4.

No scratchings.