Short-priced favourite Watermans Bay put up a very smart performance in winning this race for the second year in succession. He settled well in last place in the seven-horse field and remained there until nearing the home turn. William Pike took him deep on straightening and he produced a tremendous late final sprint to grab a decisive win in the closing stages. Quality mare Magnifisio had a good trip in fourth place, one out and one back. She moved up well rounding the home turn, got to the front at the 200m but could not hold off the winner’s late challenge to finish second, in a repeat result of this race in 2014. Respondent was fifth on the rails, eased into clear running on turning for home and kept battling on well for a good third.