If loss of form or misfortune strikes a slot runner in the lead-up to the $1.3 million Kosciuszko, the Matt Dunn stable believes it has an able replacement in La Scopa.

La Scopa ($7) finished powerfully to beat Smug Satusfaction ($3) by a half neck with a neck to Jay Jay D'Ar ($2.80) in the TAB Handicap (1200m).

The mare is one of several horses trainer Matt Dunn put as part of stable deal for the Kosciuszko but no slot holder took up the offer.

Dunn wasn't at Eagle Farm but his wife and foreman Keira Dunn said the stable still held hopes of getting a Kosciuszko slot.

"We thought it would be better to offer a selection of horses when it is six weeks to the race," she said.

"But we missed out and our hope now is there is a horse that drops out and the slot holder wants another horse.

"La Scopa wouldn't be out of place as she is Stakes placed and she handles all conditions.

"She is raced by clients who have been with us from the start so we really enjoy getting wins for them."