Those who have taken the big odd about Niwot in today’s Melbourne Cup received a form fillip when Norsqui won the Lavazza Long Black (2800m) at Flemington today.

Just hour out from the big race, Norsqui, who finished third to Niwot in the Andrew Ramsden at Flemington in May, returned to take a determined win thanks to a perfect ride by Chris Symons.

Symons replaced the suspended Craig Williams on Norsqui and it couldn’t have been ridden any better.

The Walter McShane trained galloper was settled seventh on the fence before the home turn when Symons, riding to the track pattern, moved to the middle of the course.

The race was set up by Perfect Pecs who ran along quickly in front while favourite backers had to watch Excluded drift back to the tail from its wide barrier.

In the straight it was clear these two were going to fight the finish.

Excluded looked a hope but the Tasmanian trained galloper proved too smart.

Once again the winners have come down the centre of the track, obviously the place to be.

Norsqui $20 defeated Excluded $3.50 by a head with Olympic Win $17 further 4-1/4l away third.

While easily beaten Olympic Win’s run was good after being trapped wide during the race.

Symons, who rides Melbourne Cup bolter Saptapadi $81, says he has other good rides today and is feeling confident – surely not.