Cox Plate-eve is always a highlight for punters, as The Valley goes under lights to dish up a tasty entree in the form of the Group One Manikato Stakes.
While not ideal for the track staff who are tasked with the short back-up, the night meeting always attracts high quality gallopers as well as an army of race goers geared up for one of the great running doubles.
Light showers are forecast to fall in Melbourne on Friday, however it's unlikely there will be any irrigation applied. This could produce a genuine fast track if the rain doesn't eventuate.
In line with recent history, the rail will be in the true position for the two day carnival.
On a dry racing surface, punters can expect some on-pace favours early before evening out as the card progresses.
Michael has yielded 21% Profit on Turnover in the last 365 days at Moonee Valley.
He was the dominant winner of this race 12 months ago and there is nothing to suggest he can't go back-to-back.
His last start in the Group One Sir Rupert Clarke was a complete forgive and with a record of 8 wins from 21 starts, you can be confident that he'll give it his all.
Damien Oliver taking the ride gives us a good indication that the horse is showing no ill effects from his last start effort.
Jumping from barrier four and with a moderate tempo likely, he maps perfectly in the small field and will sit on the outside to do little work.
With the dream run in transit, expect Oliver to push the button at the 600m and go for home.
The only danger is the short-priced favourite Widgee Turf, who will be sitting at the back of the field. From that position, he will have to produce a monumental effort to catch this Danny O'Brien trained galloper.
Clear on top selection and looks good value in a two-horse affair.
The Valley Race 5 Tip #2 Greysful Glamour $6.50
The runner-up in the last year's VRC Oaks, this mare is now stretching out to a suitable distance and comes into this race at peak fitness.
From barrier six, expect jockey Rachel King to spear across and stretch the field out.
The key to her chances here is a dry-track. If she gets the predicted good track with an on-pace bias, then her backers will be joining the queue at the home turn.
She's the class runner in the field with an astute trainer at the helm and if she gets track conditions to suit, expect a flood of money late in betting.
It's the big two day carnival at The Valley this weekend and our Moonee Valley tips page has every tipster who posts at selection at the track listed in order of their profitability. Make sure you check it out before you punt.
Michael is a life-long punter who enjoys the challenge of unearthing value buried within betting markets. The ex golf pro knows a thing or two about performing under pressure.
