BOXING: McDonagh claims Golden Gloves title

8:24am Tuesday 11th March 2008

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Walcot's title-chasing duo experienced mixed fortunes at the final of the ABA Golden Gloves Championship in Knottingley, West Yorkshire.

Thirteen-year-old Tommy McDonagh enjoyed the best win of his career as he was crowned Class One 46-48kgs champion after a points win over Ryan Bolton from Plains Farm ABC.

However, there was bitter disappointment for Ryan Martin in the Class Two 57-60kg section, losing against Skerton's Patrick Miller.

McDonagh (pictured) started well in his final, landing with left jabs and straight rights to edge ahead 3-2 after the opening session.

The Walcot boxer built on this during the middle period of the fight, scoring with more left jabs and a right uppercut to lead 6-3 after two rounds.

And, after a close final round, McDonagh had earned an 8-5 points win to take the title.

Coach Dave Veysey was thrilled with his young boxer, saying: "That was a superb performance from a lad who is only just 13 years of age.

"He's been at Walcot for over three years and is a real star of the future."

McDonagh was delighted with his performance and said: "What a fantastic day.

"It feels brilliant to have won a national title at my first attempt.

"I'd like to thank all the Walcot coaches for their hard work, and thanks also to my dad for driving me to the gym five times a week.

"Now I'm looking forward to boxing for England next month."

Clubmate Martin, last season's Class One featherweight champion, was a little below par in his encounter.

After an even opening round, the scores were locked at one point apiece. Martin then landed two heavy shots during the second session but surprisingly found himself 2-1 down at the bell.

The Greendown schoolboy tried to redress the balance during the final round but eventually lost 4-2.

Disappointed coach Harry Scott said: "Ryan woke up this morning with a cough and a cold so he wasn't quite himself today.

"However, it was a good bout, and I'm not making any excuses.

"I must congratulate Miller on his performance, Ryan beat him three months ago on our Walcot show so now the score is one each.

"Maybe we can have the decider next season.

"Ryan will come back from this because he is an extremely talented boxer."

Both boxers now compete for England Schoolboys in a Three Nations event in Sheffield on April 11-12.