The Anthony Cummings-trained Never Can Tell began quickly from his outside barrier (10) and settled outside the leader (Whittington). He moved up to put pressure on that horse at the 300m before getting to the lead at the 100m and drawing clear for a strong half length win. It was an impressive first-up win. The favourite Whittington went straight to the lead and he fought back gamely all the way down the straight, just finding the winner a bit too good on the day. Criterion was fifth on the rails and eased out rounding the home turn. He got to fourth, about five lengths from the leader, at the 200m and continued to make ground for third, beaten three lengths, in a sound first-up effort. His stablemate Regimental Pride had a good run fourth one out and one back, before moving up three wide at the turn. He improved to third at the 300m and held for fourth after having every chance. The highly regarded Napayshini missed the start and was last to the turn. He was ridden vigorously from the 600m but did not make up any significant ground finishing a well beaten ninth. *ANZ