Talented Chris Waller-trained colt Performer resumed after his impressive win on debut in the Breeders’ Plate (Listed, 1000m) at Randwick in September to score nicely here, albeit by the narrowest of margins. He settled in third place, one off the rails (with cover), behind a steady pace before moving up well to challenge at the 200m. He looked set to win quite comfortably nearing the 100m but just scored in a photo when the leader made a late rally in the sprint home (last 600m 33.60). Peter and Paul Snowed-trained colt Stratosphere impressed here on debut. After a quick beginning he led and then steadied the pace. He was hotly challenged at the 200m but lifted gamely in the closing stages for the closest of seconds. The Gary Portelli-trained colt Exceltic raced in fourth place on the rails, angled into clear running at the 200m and then fought on well in the sprint home for a promising third on debut.