Elliott Plots Roman Conquest

Gordon Elliott believes there is a big handicap to be won with Roman Villa this season as he prepares him for the Pierse Hurdle at Leopardstown on January 13.

The six-year-old chased home subsequent Ladbroke hurdle winner Jack The Giant at Cheltenham last month and is reportedly in fine fettle ahead of the valuable contest.

Elliott said: 'It was good to see Jack The Giant win The Ladbroke as we gave him 2lb at Cheltenham.

'He has run on heavy ground before and he was only beaten three and a half lengths but it is on the inside track at Leopardstown so I don't think it will be that bad.

'If it was soft it would be OK, but if it was heavy I might have to think about not running him. If it stays the way it is we'll be OK.

'I would think that the race would be run to suit ? a fast gallop so he can come off a strong pace ? and Leopardstown is not as stiff as Cheltenham.

'He has cantered up to the final furlong twice there (Cheltenham) this season and not quite got home.

'He only has 10st 5lb to carry, he'll never have a weight like that again in his life so we'll be hoping for a big run.

'He's improving and I think he'll run a big race if the conditions are right ? he won't be far away.

'The lads who have ridden him say he will jump fences but he is only small.

'There's a big handicap hurdle in him this year and Jason Maguire will ride him in the Pierse.'

Roman Villa is 8-1 with Paddy Power for the Pierse Hurdle.

(C) PA Sport