Faugheen limbering up at Closutton
Faugheen limbering up at Closutton

Willie Mullins says Faugheen is stiff but reports him to be fine following chasing debut win


Willie Mullins is confident Faugheen will make a quick recovery despite returning home "stiff" after his impressive victory on chasing debut.

Mullins' 2015 Champion Hurdle winner made an instant impact on his first attempt over fences, at the age of 11, winning the Naas Oil Beginners Chase by seven and a half lengths at Punchestown on Saturday.

Faugheen did, however, have to overcome a jarring mistake at the eighth fence - almost unseating Paul Townend and losing the lead before taking over again at the last and easing clear.

Mullins said on Sunday: "Faugheen is a bit stiff this morning.

"I think he's fine, but any horse that hits a fence hard is going to be a bit sore.

"I expect him to be all right in a couple of days."