Murphys Friend sprang a 20/1 surprise in the last race of the year at Kilbeggan, the Athlone Flat Race, winning for the Fahey father and son team of trainer Pat and jockey Conor.

Having run in two maiden hurdles and two bumpers, the 6yo son of Alderbrook (who also sired earlier winner Granaruid had shown nothing before today.

The winner hit the front three furlongs out and was challenged by the 5/2 favourite Bridgets Pet over a furlong from home. The pair then battled for victory from there with Murphys Friend staying on best to score by half a length.

The pair went eleven lengths clear of the third Too Wild For Der at 12/1

Winning trainer Pat Fahey said afterwards: "That was a bit of a surprise. He ran in the North last time out and hung to his left. He travelled well in races but would then cut out.

"We put a tongue tie and cheek pieces on him today and they worked. I'd say it was the tongue tie that made the real difference as he may have had a problem with his palette and that was why he was cutting out."

Commenting on Ballybacka Lady, who runs in the Matron Stakes tomorrow, Fahey said: "Hopefully they won’t get the rain that is forecast. She may be a bit out of her depth but we will give it a go anyway."

The win was a welcome one for Fahey who's last winner was in fact Ballybacka Lady on the 8th of May.

Donal Murphy