SCHOOL IS IN SESSION

Andy Whittle sees Bateson prove far too much for outgunned Aguilar

INCLEMENT weather, coupled with all the usual problems that beset the putting-together of a boxing promotion, meant that this Mark Bateson show, in the banqueting suite across the road from Leeds United FC’S Elland Road stadium, went ahead with just five contests and an exhibition.

Leeds’ Jack Bateson handed Barcelonabased Nicaraguan Jose Aguilar something of a lesson en route to a shutout 40-36 win. The visitor, his nose bloodied in the opener, was particularly outclassed in the first half of the contest and subject to continued pressure. Steve Gray refereed.

Local rivals Sean Hare and Mike Ash had fought to a draw over four back in September, but this time it was Hare who deservedly took the 39-37 decision of referee John Latham. Ash came on in the last session after being outworked and outboxed in the earlier rounds.

A contest between local Sam “SJ” Smith and Poland’s heavier Sylwia Maksym went the way of the Leeds fighter, to whom Mr Gray awarded a 59-55 victory at the conclusion of a six-twos. By the finish, the visitor was nursing a bruise above her left eye.

Leeds’ well-supported Terry Broadbent, who sixth months earlier had returned from a lengthy layoff, dominated his four against Lithuania’s Simas Volosinas. Mr Gray tallied 40-36 for Broadbent.

Local southpaw Mick Learmonth triumphed 40-36 against Lithuanian

Remigijus Ziausys, although the winner did pick up a nasty cut above the left eye, having been tagged in the last. Mr Gray refereed.

A four-round exhibition between Kyle Scully of Halifax and Hull’s Connor Coghill proved a lively and entertaining affair.

THE VERDICT Pullouts galore, but the show goes on regardless.