Sean Woods figured prominently at the two all-weather barrier trials at Sha Tin on Friday and had the quinella in the opener, where new recruit Trophy (rated 57) impressively beat Agility.
Although the trial was steadily run, Trophy travelled strongly for Alex Lai Hoi-wing, who had the son of Unbridled's Song leading the five-runner field.
There is no doubt that Woods has conjured a little improvement out of Trophy since he joined the yard, and he is clearly working better than he had for some time.
Trophy has been quite consistent this term, but has only dropped two points since November, which has not helped his cause.
However, based on this effort, there should be a race where he can prove competitive in Class Four before the end of the season.
Stablemate Agility (rated 107) was ridden along inside the concluding stages and hit the line nicely for Gerald Mosse.
It was a sound piece of work, but the comparative rating between the two left no doubt which one should be followed next time around.