Expectation put up a very good effort to lead throughout, winning impressively on debut. He worked in the early stages to cross to the lead and after a first 600m in a quick 34.81, he then kicked clear on straightening. He understandably tired in the closing stages but had enough in hand to win by a half neck. Courtza King was sixth, one off the rails before improving (wide) nearing the home turn. He then ran on strongly in the straight, getting to within a half neck of the winner for a very promising second on debut. Puzzling Wonder was third on the rails, got through to second at the 100m and then battled on for third, going quite well, also on debut. Disgraceful was a handy fourth to the turn, looked a threat at the 200m but then battled on for fourth while Pounamu raced well below his previous promising form and was never a chance, finishing sixth in the seven-horse field at his first run this preparation.