AU - Launceston - Race 1

A mediocre maiden to kick things off. TIMELY NEEDS (5) has been in the money at five of his ten runs and won't get a better chance than this to grab an overdue win. Raced just off the pace then worked home well for third when resuming over this course and distance a fortnight ago. Races well here and on his best form he looks a bit better than these. SHINES DISCREETLY (3) is yet to find the frame in ten starts but his two most recent efforts have been encouraging. Finished around a length behind Timely Needs when they clashed here two weeks ago. Draws a better gate this evening so expect him to be competitive again. AWESOME ORPHAN (7) backs up seven days after making a little late ground to finish sixth over 5 ½f here. Likely improver out to this more suitable journey. TIMMIE LAD (6) returns from a ten-month spell. Showed glimpses of ability in the maiden campaign. Two recent trials should have him up to the mark. ONE STAR DREAM (1) is a market watch off a two-year absence.