Toward defends his national title

BIRTLEY’S Dan Toward was crowned National Association of Boys And Girls Clubs champion for the second successive season in the Class B finals at Broadplain Community Club in Bristol.

Toward took the 66kg crown with victory over Michael Burke (Bodyshots).

Birtley head coach Graeme Rutherford said: “Burke was national and Tri-Nations champion last year in his age group which meant it was a difficult task for Dan.

“Dan, whose style has matured, drew Burke on to his straight shots, having success with his backhand.

“Round two saw Burke come forward more but as he did he was met with thumping one-two combinations. However he is a game, tough lad and he was not deterred.

“Nevertheless, Dan was growing in confidence and using the ring well. When he was caught he always answered back with telling left-rights. Burke gave it a real go but Dan showed good maturity in picking his shots and using the ring well to stay out of trouble.

“It was a good performance of hitting and not being hit.

“Dan showed maturity by not becoming involved in a war.”

Rhys Deehan flies to Germany tomorrow to compete in a Box Cup for England in Stranger while Ben Rees boxes for England v the Combined Services at Hereford on Saturday in a one-off international.

Tommy Hodgson lost his Great Britain box-off at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield.

He dropped a 3-2 decision to Martin Mcdonagh at 60kg but still impressed enough on his debut.