Carlingford Lough gave Tony McCoy his first victory in the Hennessy Gold Cup just a day after he announced his impending retirement in a thrilling race for the Leopardstown showpiece.

Jezki remains on course for another clash with great rival Hurricane Fly in the BHP Insurance Irish Champion Hurdle back at Leopardstown on January 25.

Two of last season’s star novices could face off in the Bar One Racing Hatton’s Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse on Sunday with Jezki and Rule The World on course to meet.

Crozan, who disappointed when only fourth in the Feltham Novices’ Chase at Sandown yesterday, has been reported to be stiff by trainer Nicky Henderson.