Ballarat Synthetic Tips – Friday, June 26 

EXPENSIVE TASTE (11) returns to the races for the first time since finishing 1.29 lengths third in the Group 2 Sires’ Produce Stakes at Flemington. 

That’s excellent form for this Maiden and it’s easy to see why she’s such a short price. 

The Tony & Calvin McEvoy-trained filly is trained on the track and gave a good sight on the grass here when finishing just under a length third second-up last preparation. 

Harry Coffey will drive forward to lead and should give them something to catch. 

TENNESSEE SPIRIT (11) didn’t handle the heavy track last start so can be forgiven for that failure. 

The start prior when resuming, the Toby Lake-trained filly showed plenty of speed to lead over 1000m at Caulfield Heath before being picked off in the final stride to finish a neck second. 

She’ll strip fitter third-up and while she’s never raced on a synthetic surface, the fact that it won’t be wet is in her favour. 

Zac Moore’s claim is a plus and the apprentice should use the low draw to advantage and go to the front.  

MAGNARDO (1) gave an almighty sight last start when resuming from a short let-up over 1100m at this track only to get run down and finish a length second. 

The Reece Goodwin-trained mare has been in unbelievable form winning eight straight races in a span that started on Boxing Day.  

Given she was seven weeks between runs, she’ll have come on nicely. 

She never runs a bad race and 2kg claimer Bailey Kinninmont should give her every chance to bounce back to winning form with a forward ride. 

BAD BLOOD (1) proved too strong on debut at Stawell winning saluting by just under a length. 

The Tony & McEvoy-trained gelding was immediately sent to the paddock after that win and returns here. 

He looked good in a recent jump out working strongly to the line under his own steam. 

While a wide barrier isn’t ideal, he has the early speed to cross and settle in a prominent position.