Albion boxers return from nationals

Norma Marshall returned home without a medal from the national boxing championships, but she made an impression on the women’s elite division in Quebec City.

Marshall lost a semifinal match Friday to Sara Kali of Quebec in a split decision, but gave Kali, ranked third in the world, everything she could handle.

“I can’t say enough about Norma,” said Albion Amateur Boxing Club president Jim Worthen, who accompanied the provincial team to Quebec City for the week.

“Norma felt really good about her performance. A lot of people thought she won that fight. I don’t think we got ripped off or anything, but I thought Norma controlled the fight and won it.”

Albion fighter Matthew Fraser lost both of his bouts at nationals, though Worthen said the coaching staff was looking to get Fraser some valuable experience, and weren’t too concerned about wins or losses at this point.

Fraser’s second fight of the week saw him drop a decision to Alberta’s Brandon Cole.

Fraser had seven fights under his belt going to nationals, while his two opponents had a combined 46 ring appearances on their resumes.

“It was a good bout,” said Worthen.

“Cole had a lot more experience. We went up there with the expectation of Matt gaining experience.”

The Albion club will host a card this coming Saturday at Summer Street Industries in New Glasgow.