McDonagh becomes national schoolboy champion (From Swindon Advertiser)

McDonagh becomes national schoolboy champion

6:00am Thursday 7th March 2013 in Sport

WALCOT’S Jimmy McDonagh won the national schoolboy title after a superb display in Liverpool at the weekend.

The 14-year-old beat northern champion Edward Stokes of Northampton’s Far Cotton gym with a masterclass of boxing.

Jimmy now joins older brothers Tommy and Patrick on the Walcot roll of honour, as both are previous schoolboy champions.

From the outset McDonagh met Stokes with fast left jabs and heavy straight rights in the class three (44kg) contest.

Almost every time that the Northampton boxer landed a shot, McDonagh replied with two or three of his own.

He comfortably took the opener and carried on with more of the same during the middle session.

As the round progressed Stokes became disillusioned, as every time he attacked he received a punch or two for his trouble.

The final two minutes saw Jimmy well in control, to put the seal on a polished performance.

At the final bell, four of the ringside judges scored in McDonagh’s favour, with one for Stokes.

The thrilled Walcot youngster said: “All went to plan during the bout and I am overjoyed to have won the title.

“I must thank Harry Scott and all the Walcot coaches for their help throughout the season, not forgetting my dad Paddy who drives me all over the country for contests.”

McDonagh’s coach Dave Veysey was delighted with his boxer’s performance.

“Jimmy performed really well and outclassed a quality opponent,” he said.

“I can’t understand how one judge had Stokes the winner but never mind, it’s the overall result that counts.

“Jimmy has worked very hard this season and thoroughly deserves his success.

“Although I was in his corner today it’s a team effort at Walcot, and I’d like to congratulate our whole coaching team - Harry Scott, Lionel McCrea, Harold Scott junior, Sarah Wicks, Danny Hughes, Jason O’Donoghue and Mike Bolton - on another great day for the club.”