WALCOT boxer Ross Kennedy lost out to local rival Owen Sutton of Swindon ABC in a thrilling Junior Championship contest at Bristol University last weekend, writes Dave Veysey.

The 14-year-old was returning from a 14-month ring absence following a shoulder injury, and his ring rust showed as he allowed Sutton to dominate the opening round of this 66kgs encounter.

The middle session saw Kennedy enjoy improved success with his left jab, but the other Swindonian in the ring countered every move that the Walcot boxer made, and scored with some well-placed straight rights to edge an exciting round.

Both teenagers gave their all during the final two minutes as they attacked and defended in equal measure.The packed student-crowd gave both youngsters a terrific ovation at the final bell, where Sutton was awarded a unanimous points decision.

Sutton now progresses to the Western Counties Final, which will be held at the Walcot ABC show at the Supermarine Sport and Social Club on, Friday, March 6.