Jockey Tyler Schiller admits he was expecting more from Makarena in her first-up run but remains confident in the mare’s ability to perform better in the Newcastle Stakes.

Makarena started as the favourite in the Millie Fox Stakes (1300m), where she finished fourth after a wide run. Schiller believes she will be much fitter for her next outing.

“She was entitled to be a short-priced favourite and I thought she was a little bit disappointing,” Schiller said.

“Drawing that awkward gate, she had to do more work than we would have liked, but I thought she was the quality horse of the field and would have kicked on.”

Makarena’s second-up form historically improves, and Schiller is hopeful for a much stronger showing from her on Friday.

With a solid build like a colt, Schiller believes Makarena will take significant improvement from her first-up run.

Makarena is currently the $3.70 favourite, ahead of Sandpaper ($4.20) and Amenable ($6).