Murphy's Charterhouse digs deep for Colgan

The easy-to-back Charterhouse (10/3, having been morning favourite at 2/1) came out on top in a blanket finish to Irish Stallion Farms EBF Race.

Robbie Colgan ’s mount had a clear-cut advantage on ratings going into this winners-of-one but had to dig deep in the final furlong to get home by a neck from the 2/1 market leader at the off Laelaps with less than a length covering the first four home.

The winner had ben unplaced in three runs in Group company, including two at the highest level, since winning a Curragh maiden last August.

George Murphy, assistant to his father, winning trainer John Murphy, said: "I was pleased with that, he seemed to stay at it very well.

“Robbie just said the ground felt slow and very sticky on him. He definitely didn't enjoy it but he got through it.

“We'll have a talk with the owners and make a plan. I think he's more than entitled to go back into stakes company.

“I'd say a mile and we'll definitely stick to proper good ground now.”

Quotes from Gary Carson