Damian Oliver was seen at his best in winning the Victoria Derby on Fiveandahalfstar, who was not seen as a serious contender, except for those close to the stable

 Whilst he went into the classic as a winner, at his two starts over staying trips, one a Maiden and the other a BM 72, against a mere handfull of runners, there were no signs about reading, please back me .

As a result the gelding was unwanted in betting proceedings at $41.00, and there were not too many takers about at those odds either .

Oliver had Fiveandahalfstar parked right behind the leader Jimando, who was cutting out a merry pace, Super Cool was keeping in touch, while It's A Dundeel was so far back he would have needed the assistance of a cab to have had any chance.

 James McDonald again allowed the colt to drop too far out of his ground, whether he has trained off from being up too long is hard to say, punters didn't get much of a run from the favourite.

 It's A Dundeel will now be spelled and return to Sydney for the Australian Derby at Randwick, no doubt Fiveandahalfstar will follow the same pattern, it is difficult to say, the attrition rate between the Melbourne spring and the Sydney autumn can be high.

 Super Cool ran right up to his win in the Vase at Moonee Valley, he held his position for the entire journey, never giving up at any stage, he is bound to become a better horse in the autumn, with his mission likely to be the Australian Guineas on his home track, Flemington.

 The win of Fiveandahalfstar was a bonus for Anthony Cummings, he bred the gelding and also trained his sire, Hotel Grand, among the finest sires you would wish to see.