NZ - Matamata - Race 6

PERICLES (4) finished ninth in the G2 Rich Hill Mile at Ellerslie last start, just over 8 weeks ago. The freshen up will do him no harm, and he is much better suited here. He cops a decent gate and shapes as a leading contender in this company. ROCTAVE (9) was well supported last time but failed to fire over 1 ¼m here on a track that was far too heavy for him. His effort prior for second is the guide to use, and he can bounce back immediately. SAVOIR FAIRE (8) has had two runs back from a spell without placing, most recently fifth over 1m on a heavy track here after settling well back. He should be nearing peak fitness, and with the step up to 1 ¼m, he is a top 3 chance. THE UNDERBELLY (2) was disappointing over 1 ?m at Ellerslie last time. He is better off racing in an anti-clockwise direction, and he is worth including in all top 4 combos.