WALCOT boxer Patrick McDonagh’s European dream ended when he bowed out at the quarter final stage of the European Youth Championships in Croatia, writes Dave Vesey.

The 17-year-old was facing the tough Hungary number one Richard Toth in a contest where the winner was guaranteed a bronze medal, as well as a place in the semi-final.

McDonagh made a confident start and clinched the opening round, scoring with fast southpaw right jabs and straight lefts.

But during the middle session the Hungarian raised his game to outscore the Walcot star and level the bout.

The final three minutes was an all-action affair as both boxers pushed themselves to their limits in an attempt to grab a semi final place.

The England camp thought their man had done enough, but the ringside judges were split, two to one, in favour of Toth.

McDonagh said afterwards: ‘I am gutted to have lost at this stage of the tournament.

“I thought I had done enough to win a close contest but that’s how it goes sometimes in boxing. I have enjoyed the championships and I look forward to boxing for England again in the future’.

Walcot chief coach Harry Scott was disappointed with the result, but happy with his protégé’s performance, saying: ‘Patrick boxed very well three times within the space of four days.

“He has beaten two national champions and reached the top eight in Europe for his weight and age and that is quite an achievement. Walcot ABC are very proud of him’.