Chris Waller is taking a patient approach with unbeaten filly Autumn Glow after her strong trial performance at Randwick on Monday.

The three-year-old finished third, 2.5 lengths behind Schwarz in a 1050m heat, with jockey Zac Lloyd keeping her well within herself. The trial was her second hit-out this prep as she builds toward a return.

Waller has nominated Autumn Glow for Saturday’s Group 1 Surround Stakes (1400m) at Randwick but will monitor her progress before committing.

“If she’s not 100% ready, we won’t run,” Waller said. “She’ll need to be at her best to take on Lady Shenandoah.”

Autumn Glow has been sidelined since her impressive win in the Group 2 Tea Rose Stakes (1400m) last September. A knee injury forced her withdrawal from the Group 1 Flight Stakes, which was subsequently won by Lady Shenandoah.

Lady Shenandoah resumed in style with a dominant victory in the Group 2 Light Fingers Stakes (1200m) and remains the clear favourite for the Surround Stakes. Waller is also likely to field Amelita, Delichy Boulevard, and Lazzura in the race.

“Lady Shenandoah is the one to beat,” Waller admitted. “She’s set the standard, but my fillies are improving and should relish the step up in distance.”

Waller is also well-represented in the $1 million Verry Elleegant Stakes (1600m), with Fangirl and Via Sistina set for a rematch following their Apollo Stakes battle. Lindermann, who split them in that race, will also take his place, alongside stablemate Land Legend and Joe Pride’s Ceolwulf.