Messene emerged as a Doncaster contender with a gutsy win in the National Sprint.

Messene took his record to eight wins from 11 starts with a good performance to win from the outside barrier (15).

He went forward and gradually worked across after a wide early trip to be outside the leader before going to the front shortly after straightening. Although tiring, after his early efforts, he held on to score another good win, albeit by only a long head on this occasion.

Reparations was midfield to the turn. He was held up for a run after turning for home, got clear at the 200m and ran on well for a good second looking a little unlucky.

Centennial Park was about eighth, wide with cover, before moving up wide-out nearing the home turn. He challenged at the 200m and fought on nicely for a sound third.