AU - Eagle Farm - Race 2

MANOLO BLING (2) has a race fitness edge on many key rivals. Closed well to be beaten just 0.6 lengths by the airborne Flying Destiny last start over this distance at the Gold Coast. Big drop in grade today but does go up 5.5kgs after the claim. This looks a lovely race but the prospect of a wet track is the niggle. BELEGATO (1) is back after a 21-week break. Opened last prep with a close second in open company over this distance at the Sunshine Coast. Maps nicely just off a hot tempo. Handles all going and looks a solid each-way option. Lightly raced filly SWORDPLAY (12) returns from a 20-week spell. Absolutely scorched over 4 ½f to win by nearly five first-up at Newcastle last prep. Trialling well and looks ready to go. LYLES (4) resumes. Won three from three last prep as warm favourite on each occasion. Three recent trials will have him up to the mark. Distance specialist BOSSED UP (3) is another who comes here off a break but generally performs when fresh.