AKKADIAN EMPEROR (11) is a consistent commodity who has remarkably hit the top-five in 12 of his past 13 starts and rarely puts in a poor one. Has been knocking on the door with consecutive runner-up finishes and strikes a very winnable contest here. Sure to be right there when the whips are cracking. KIRKEBY (2) has a handy record over this staying test with a win and four placings from eight attempts. Gets plenty of weight relief with the 3kg claim and should give this a mighty shake. Former Bjorn Baker-prepared galloper FLEET COMMANDER (8) was okay in his first run for the Freedman barn and will be ready for the step-up in trip now. In the mix. BENGAL BOY (4) was too bad to be true last time but the form prior was full of merit. Can bounce right back. CELESTIAL FURY (7) has saluted on all going and may make his presence felt.