AU - Newcastle - Race 5

PLAY MY SONG (9) returned from an 11-month spell with an encouraging effort last start, battling on gamely to be beaten under two lengths in a BM82 over 5f at Muswellbrook. Has never been in the money in seven first-up runs to put the effort into perspective. Always improves second-up so from a nice draw with no weight she makes plenty of appeal. PRINCESS CRUIZER (8) had a seven-week let-up before her midfield finish over 5f at Gosford last time out. Has a tricky gate to contend with but with added fitness today she might be hard to hold out. EDGE OF MIDNIGHT (2) pulled up 2/5 lame so forget his run at Coffs Harbour recently. Placed at his only try at 4 ½f so this looks a nice race to put things back on track. THE ESCAPE (1) is working his way back into form, beaten under a length last start at Warwick Farm. Goes well here at this trip so from a nice gate he is right in contention. SILENCIO PORFAVOR (3) is a market watch first-up since being gelded.