Murtagh waits on appeal decision

JOHNNY Murtagh is likely to leave it late before deciding whether to appeal against what could be a costly six-day ban for careless riding.

Murtagh was handed the suspension by the Newmarket stewards following his victory on Starspangledbanner in the July Cup for tacking left to the far rail in the early stages of the race.

The suspension, lasting from July 23 to 28 inclusive, comes at a crucial time of the season.