Alco set for winter break

New Alco will have a break before returning for a spring campaign following a disappointing run in the Boylesports.com Gold Cup.

The six-year-old could not get in a blow when only 10th behind all-the-way winner Tamarinbleu in the Cheltenham feature on Saturday.

He had previously been pulled up when strongly fancied for the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup after a winning seasonal debut at Carlisle last month.

“It was just of those days. We jumped him out to try to make the running and he couldn’t get there,” said trainer Ferdy Murphy.

“What an incredible performance the winner put up with that pace in front. He (New Alco) was probably just collared with the weight in what was a big handicap.

“Also, when you go for the Hennessy and it doesn’t work out you only regroup and try to do something you shouldn’t really be doing.

“We are going to give him a rest, freshen him up and have a spring campaign. I’m not sure what way we will be going with him yet.

“I’ll have a talk with the owner and decide what we are going to do. He deserves a break now, but he's OK, no problems.”