Newmill Poised For Punchestown

Newmill could make a quick reappearance at Punchestown on Sunday following his fine effort on unsuitable ground at Gowran Park.

Trainer John Murphy described the horse as being 'so well' that he is considering the Byrne Group plc Tied Cottage Chase for the 2006 Queen Mother Champion Chase hero.

Newmill was only beaten three lengths despite finishing last of three behind Nickname and Kicking King in a thrilling three-horse race for the Normans Grove Chase last week.

'He's excellent, not a bother on him. The ground wasn't what he wanted, but he just comes into his own at this time of year,' said County Cork-based Murphy.

'I couldn't have been happier with the run. He's been so well since the race that we have entered him for Sunday and he probably will run.

'A decision will be made on Friday and that would be his last race before Cheltenham for sure and we'll probably go for the Queen Mother again.'

Newmill, fourth to Voy Por Ustedes in the two-mile championship last March, is a best-priced 16-1 to regain his crown.

Murphy may also run Final Act in the Tied Cottage Chase if the injury-plagued 12-year-old has recovered from a minor injury incurred during his run in the Thyestes Chase at the same Gowran meeting on Thursday.

'He ran well but got a little cut. If we can get it tidied up by Sunday he will run as well,' the trainer continued.

'He's an unlucky horse. He's had terrible leg trouble all his life, but he's quite a high-class horse.'

(C) PA Sport