Colour Of Love supplemented a nursery win here last November when taking the three-year-olds' six furlong handicap under Michael Hussey.

Sent off a generous 16/1 as most observers felt this trip would prove on the sharp side, she stayed on gamely under pressure to lead in the closing stages for a half length verdict over Extra Steps (10/1) with Style Margi (12/1) just a head back in third.

Strong 7/4 favourite Red Army Blues was checked early on and ran freely afterwards, weakening from a furlong out to finish eighth.

“She was hampered early and didn't turn on the bend. She's a funny horse but sticks her head out and keeps going. She's lazy at home and doesn't do a tap,” said winning trainer Willie McCreery.

When asked if the winner would be stepped up in trip next time, McCreery added: “Although she did everything wrong tonight, she still won!”