Sizing Europe and Big Zeb set for Sunday clash

SIZING EUROPE and Big Zeb are likely to meet in Sunday's Boylesports.com Tied Cottage Chase at Punchestown, a race which could set up another clash between the pair at Cheltenham in March.

Punchestown's track was described as heavy but raceable on Tuesday and with heavy frosts forecast, a decision will be made regarding the use of frost covers later this week.

Big Zeb took second in the Tied Cottage Chase last year before going on to finish five lengths behind Sizing Europe in the Sportingbet.com Queen Mother Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, a route which the 11-year-old is likely to replicate this year.

"Preparations are going very well. Ideally we would need better ground but we are going to stick to the same plan as last year," said trainer Colm Murphy.

"We will run on Sunday and then on to Cheltenham and finally back to the Boylesports.com Champion Chase at the Punchestown festival all going well."

Sizing Europe has been off the track since demolishing his rivals in theSportingbet Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown in December and trainer Henry de Bromhead said: "Obviously we would prefer better ground on Sunday but we are sticking to the same route as last season.

"Sizing is in good form. We were delighted with his Tingle Creek run as it is recognised as a true two-mile test," he added.

Sizing Europe is a top-priced 9-4 shot with William Hillto repeat his Cheltenham victory in March, a race the same firm quoted Big Zeb at 4-1.