The early scratching of a few key gallopers has left this is Hemsworth’s race to lose.
Hemsworth has only made two appearances at the races since debuting, but he has shown decent ability in finishing just off the pace of the winner at Tamworth on both occasions.
Fitter third-up this looks his opportunity to win.
Tilly’s Star rates as a key winning chance in the fourth at Port Macquarie this afternoon.
The So You Think mare needed her resuming effort at Ipswich to tune up, but returned a lovely performance to only just miss placing in the Murwillumbah Newmarket last time.
Fitter third-up and from the good draw, she looks a touch of overs at around the $4.20 mark.
Green Protector faces a rise in class, but he was very impressive in breaking his maiden last time and can continue his rise through the grades.
The Pierro gelding has improved for each of his four starts back this time, culminating in his bullish effort at Murwillumbah last time.
Rory Hutchings has options from the rails draw and with even luck, the horse will take plenty of beating again.
Duchess Nicci will resume in the last at Port Macquarie this afternoon and can be in something like this for a long way.
The Nicconi mare was a strong and consistent performer during her debut prep, winning at Dubbo and only just missing on debut, most notably.
She’s had the benefit of a trial in the lead-up to her return and will be tough to catch.