A shower of rain before the race wasn't enough to dampen Cottage's prospects as she took advantage of firmer footing at Rosehill.

The Godolphin mare battled on soft tracks in her two previous starts this preparation, so the good track on offer on Saturday was welcomed.

Cottage, a $14 chance, scored a half-length win in the Schweppes Handicap.

Stable representative Paul Reid offered two explanations for her fourth win in nine starts - a dry surface and the guidance of Corey Brown.

"Everything went really well, a dry track and Corey cuddled her all the way," he said.

"As long as the tracks stay dry she should be competitive this time of year.

"She's got ability and this is probably the right time now, a Saturday race out of carnival time leaves her well placed."

Brown was riding for Cottage for the first time but said he was confident about her chances.

"She had a soft run, she drew one and could posse up as she liked," Brown said.

"She just can't get going on a wet track but on top of a good surface she showed she's a nice horse."

Reiby Rampart ($6.50) finished second and Labdien ($7) was another three-quarters of a length further back in third.