Yes, I can see your point (I actually came to very similar conclusions). But risk either way to me is relatively equal (though I add analysis of the XMJ to this regarding the long side), long or short (hence I did not take the trade, no confluence here). The close was well above resistance/support, which is positive, however the next few days will be crucial.
The decreasing volume over the last few months is EXTREMELLY worrying for this breakout and why I did not take the trade.
RSI definately only confirmation. MACD, don't use it.
Yeah, I find breakouts really tough these days because a lot of them turn out to be up fakes.... my rule of thumb, never chase the breakout.... MOST cases it always comes back to that level for testing where it broke out... if it holds well then buy
About BHP, it will probably hold up for a while, but it wouldn't suprise me if it cracks and heads down to $42 ish