Tough task for Loughanelteen

PHILIP ROTHWELL believes Loughanelteen faces a tough task in the Pierse Hurdle at Leopardstown on Sunday.

Rothwell’s eight-year-old is set to take his chance in the valuable two-mile event, for which he is a 14-1 chance with Paddy Power.

The County Wicklow trainer reports Loughanelteen, a winner of four races over obstacles, to be in fine fettle - even though he was last seen trailing home 14th of 21 runners in the Durkan New Homes Handicap Hurdle at Leopardstown on St Stephen’s Day.