Jockey Tyler Schiller admits he expected more from Makarena first-up but remains confident in the mare’s ability ahead of the Newcastle Stakes.

Makarena, the odds-on favourite in last month’s Millie Fox Stakes (1300m), finished fourth after crossing from a wide gate to sit outside the leader.

Schiller expects the four-year-old to be significantly fitter for Friday’s race, particularly with a good draw in barrier five.

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

“She had to work harder than we would have liked, but I still thought she was the quality horse of the field.”

Schiller believes the mare, built more like a colt, will improve significantly.

Makarena, who has shown good form second-up, will carry two kilos more than her rivals, but Schiller isn’t concerned.

“She’s a solid girl,” Schiller added.

Bookmakers have installed her as the $3.70 favourite, ahead of Sandpaper ($4.20) and Amenable ($6).