MAHEERA only needs to slot into a good position in transit to finally get that overdue breakthrough win when the three-year-old steps out in the opening race at Ballarat.

Leading Herald Sun form analyst Leo Schlink says the Darren Weir-trained filly was brave in defeat here two weeks ago after being caught wide.

Leo has made her his best for the day, but recommends punters also put a little away for Good Oh in the fifth.

BEST BET

MAHEERA (Race 1, No. 9)

Competitive in Listed company in Tasmania before brave second last time. Gets her chance here.

NEXT BEST

MARCHESA (Race 6, No. 11)

Resuming here but has done little wrong so far. Jordan Childs and gate five are assets.

KAIKEN (Race 7, No. 12)

Caught deep when distant fourth here. Damian Lane takes over and should again be competitive.

VALUE BET

GOOD OH (Race 5, No. 3)

Finished off well at Yarra Valley after jumping awkwardly. City formline suggests she is a definite winning hope here.

THE TRAINER: TRENT BUSUTTIN (Cranbourne)

CAERUS (Race 1, No. 5)

“He’s consistent, he’s run well at his last two starts. He’s going to be hard to beat with any luck but Darren Weir’s horse (Maheera) will be tough to beat.”

EXPEDIUS (Race 3, No. 4)

“Ran a very good race last start behind what looks to be a smart horse (Hawkshot). Should run well despite a tricky draw.”

ROCKWITHU (Race 3, No. 8)

“We’ve got a bit of time for. He can gallop. Drawn badly but he trialled well at Cranbourne. Not sure if he’ll start from that gate.”

THE JOCKEY: JAMIE MOTT

One of the tallest jockeys in Australia, Mott’s horsemanship is elite. He has six rides at Ballarat: CAERUS (Race 1, No. 5), CHEVAUX (Race 2, No. 3), EXPEDIUS (Race 3, No. 4), GOOSEY FAIR (Race 5, No. 5), BUT IT’S TRUE (Race 6, No. 3) and FINE EMBERS (Race 8, No. 2).