Highly promising colt Native Soldier, recent winner of the McNeil Stakes (Gr 3, 1200m) at this track on September 1, took out another Group 3 victory here in strong pointer to the upcoming Caulfield Guineas (Gr 1, 1600m). He showed great pace from his outside barrier (15) and soon crossed to the lead. He then travelled well, got a break at the 200m and went on to score impressively. Tavisan was really quickly away, led early on before easing to track the new leader (Native Soldier), he looked a danger to that runner on turning for home and then battled gamely for a very good second. The well-supported favourite Long Leaf settled back in tenth place, improved (deep) from the 600m, put in a good run on straightening and kept running on nicely to take third in a very sound performance. The $81 chance Mr Exclusive raced in eighth place to the home turn and ran on well for (3.2 lengths) fourth in a promising effort at his fourth race start.