Galant Ferns ground out a game victory in a stamina sapping 2m6f handicap hurdle at Fairyhouse.

Brian O'Connell kicked for home turning into the straight on Liam Kenny's mare and she soon opened up a gap on the field.

The 10/1 shot got in tight at the last but still had enough left on the run-in to gallop on for a five-and-a-half length victory over Askmeroe

"She travelled well and Brian did the right thing by kicking on when he did," said Kenny afterwards.

"She might go back chasing depending on what the handicapper does."

Kenny also revealed he has 15 in training at his base near Gorey with most of his charges for point-to-points.

6/4 favourite Micks finished tailed off. Alan Crowe reported that he stopped quickly and he was lame post race.