OSIPENKO (4) hasn't won since April 2023 over this trip and look for a sharp improvement today. Came from near last on the turn when an eye catching seventh over 1600m here in the G2 Ingham on December 14. Jones keeps the ride and no surprise to see him race closer to the speed. Genuine each way player. TAVI TIME (10) frustrating gelding stretching out to the 2000m for the first time. Loomed ominously with the 59kg when a fighting third over 1800m at this track on December 14. Winkers come off and senior rider on. Goes close. TOWNSEND (11) kept fresh for this and set to peak fourth-up after missing the start when third over 2000m in the LR Frank Underwood (ATC) Cup at Rosehill on November 30. Fitted with a recent 1000m trial placing and will prove hard to run down. NAVAL COLLEGE (2) classy stayer who drops in trip and weight for this. Stuck on well when fourth over 2400m at this track in the Christmas Cup on December 14. Stalks the speed and goes close.