Murphy thrilled with Newmill

John Murphy believes there is life in Newmill yet after his encouraging performance at Cheltenham on Sunday.

Now an 11-year-old, Newmill has rarely looked the horse that won the 2006 Queen Mother Champion Chase but he moved well for much of the way in the Connaught Chase, only fading on the run-in to finish five lengths behind Well Chief in fourth.

“He ran well and there seemed to be plenty of spirit in him,” said Murphy.

“He’s in great shape and who knows what would have happened if he’d had the ground – it was a pity it was so soft.

“We’ll play it by ear from here as it depends on the ground. He could come back over for the Tingle Creek, otherwise there is the Hilly Way at Cork (December 13).”