Dour stayer is certainly a tag that could be attached to Lurgan and the Roger Loughran-ridden son of Taipan made all and just did enough to hold Healys Bar by the minimum margin in the I.N.H. Stallion Owners European Breeders Fund Novice Hurdle.

The Dessie Hughes-trained 100/30 shot was following up a Naas maiden hurdle success from twenty five days ago having taken eleven attempts to get off the mark. Favourite Borrowaddy couldn't raise his effort from before the straight, eventually having to settle for fifth.

Dessie Hughes said: "I like this horse, he could be a nice prospect for chasing next year. He is honest, tough and stays well. Three miles suits him well." (EM)