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Signoff has firmed into $6.50 with Sportingbet and is now the second favourite to take out Tuesday’s Melbourne Cup after claiming the Group Three Lexus Stakes at Flemington today (Saturday).

Partnered by leading Brazilian hoop Joao Moreira, the Darren Weir trained stayer was given a dream run throughout the 2500 metre feature before kicking clear in the straight to score by two and a half lengths on the line.

The victory gives the son of Authorized and Miss Hepburn (by Gone West) an exemption from the Cup ballot and he now leapfrogs into the field having been 35th in the order of entry prior to the race.

Big Memory and La Amistad, a three quarter sister to Makybe Diva, both had their Cup dreams dashed, although they both ran solid races, when finishing second and third respectively.

Comparisons are now being drawn between Signoff and 2009 Melbourne Cup winner, Shocking.

Both horses were placed in the Hebert Power Handicap and the David Jones Cup before winning the Lexus easily. Shocking then went on to win that year’s Melbourne Cup.

Weir will now be hoping for a good barrier draw, with the final field and draw to be conducted tonight.

Caulfield Cup winner Admire Rakti still holds favouritism at
$5.25 with Sportingbet. Lucia Valentina and Protectionist have both drifted out and are currently $7 and $7.50 respectively.