Big Zeb heads Tingle Creek dozen

Published on Monday 30 November 2009 23:13

IRISH raider Big Zeb leads a 12-strong list of confirmations for Saturday's Keith Prowse Hospitality Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown.

Colm Murphy's charge was only narrowly beaten by reigning two-mile champion Master Minded at Punchestown last season and made a triumphant return with an easy win on his seasonal bow.

He will not face a rematch with Paul Nicholls' star as Master Minded is currently sidelined after finishing third at Cheltenham on his return, but Well Chief and Mahogany Blaze, who both beat him that day, should take their chance.

Trained by David Pipe and Nigel Twiston-Davies respectively, they form part of a strong home defence that also features 2007 winner Twist Magic and Free World from Nicholls' yard.

Crack Away Jack, fourth in last year's Champion Hurdle and winner of his only start over fences, is a surprise inclusion for Emma Lavelle.

Last season's Champion Chase third Petit Robin could feature for Nicky Henderson, while Howard Johnson's Tidal Bay and the Gary Moore-trained Fix The Rib are also still in there.

Forpadydeplasterer, the 2009 Arkle hero, is another to pose a huge threat from Ireland.

Former Champion Chase winner Newmill and Willie Mullins' Barker are also in the mix.

&#149 Grand National-winning rider Liam Treadwell has his fingers crossed for a Christmas return after breaking a collarbone at Newbury on Saturday.

The jockey successfully negotiated the daunting Aintree fences aboard Mon Mome last April but made it no further than the sixth flight in the novices' hurdle when Marley Roca tipped up. He said: "We will know more about how it is healing later in the week but I'll hopefully be back by Christmas if all goes well."