Counterattack began well from his wide barrier (15) and improved to settle in fifth place (but trapped three deep) before moving up to third (still wide) at the 600m. He then put in a good run to take the lead at the 200m and then went on to score impressively, despite a wide trip. Takedown was smartly away from his outside barrier (16) and worked (deep) before settling outside the leader (Fiery Heights) on passing the 1000m. He challenged strongly at the 200m and then fought particularly well for a very good second. Outsider Perfect Dare was sixth, wide with cover, before putting in a run nearing the 200m. He then battled well, holding on nicely to take the minor placing. Tivaci raced well back in the field, on the rails, got between runners on straightening and made good ground for (2.3 lengths) fourth. The favourite Sir Bacchus was in front of only three horses in the 16-horse field before switching deep at the 300m. He then made ground, without threatening, to finish (4.7 lengths) 11th at his first test at stakes class.