Polanski fought off a determined challenge, in the straight, from Epic Saga, to score a narrow win in the U C I Stakes at Flemington.

Whether he is a definite Derby chance, more will be known after he runs in the Norman Robinson Stakes in two weeks at Caulfield.

He was given a great ride by Dean Yendall, he had the colt poised ready to pounce on the leader, Rockford, when heads where turned for home.

The colt responded well to the hard riding of Yendall, who had him in a handy position throughout but whether he will get the extra ground, and class, to win a Derby remains to be seen.

Rockford was taken to the lead from the outset by Brett Prebble, he started a pronounced favourite, he was a spent force at the top of the straight, it was a disappointing performance.

The run was quite contrary to his win at Caulfield when he was ridden by Damian Oliver, a decision will be made in a few days if continues with a Derby preparation.

Famechon turned in a nice run, he remains a maiden after five starts but is not far off winning a race on that performance.

He is in the stable Michael Moroney, a past master at training stayers, and he has a couple of Derby winners to his credit.

Polanski with Dean Yendall up