The Gai Waterhouse-trained Masahiko raced outside the leader and favourite (Darciwood) before putting pressure on that runner from the home turn. He took the lead at the 300m, raced clear at the 200m and lasted to win quite well by a half neck. Hunter Jack was sixth one off the rails before moving up three wide nearing the home turn. He improved to third at the 200m and continued to run on nicely for a sound second. Gullible was eighth between runners to the home turn, switched out wide passing the 300m and then ran on fairly well for third. Darciwood ($2.60) was quickly away and led until into the straight but he dropped out from the 300m to finish a most disappointing eleventh, racing well below the form shown in his promising first two starts. *ANZ