War Eternal made the most of race fitness and wet ground to secure a narrow win in the Captivant @ Kia Ora Handicap (1400m) at Rosehill.

The seven-year-old notched his fifth career success, with Bjorn Baker’s racing manager Luke Hilton praising Jason Collett’s ride.

“He needed the breaks to come when they did but he took advantage of it and raced away really well,” Hilton said. “There might be a not-strong Listed stakes race we might be able to find while he is racing in this good form.”

Baker watched on from France, where he is enjoying a working holiday.

War Eternal edged Birdman by a half-neck, with Metropolitan winner Land Legend third.

Chris Waller said Birdman, first-up since the Sydney Cup, could progress to the Metropolitan (2400m), while Land Legend may target the Turnbull Stakes via the Chelmsford Stakes.