DON AND DUSTED

James Harte watches Broadhurst finish his career with a victory

TOMMY OWENS PROMOTIONS closed out a busy 2017 by staging a five-fight card at the Holte Suite at Villa Park, where local boxing hero Don Broadhurst stamped the last bout of his career with a 60-55 verdict over Sheffield’s Anwar Alfadli.

Switch-hitter Alfadli raced out at the opening bell, but straight into an array of jabs by Broadhurst. Alfadli proved awkward, looking to land one shot at a time, whereas Broadhurst – exuding class – punished any mistakes and took complete control for the duration of the contest. Broadhurst was awarded the victory on referee Martin Williams’ scorecard. The Brummie has been a fantastic servant to the fight game.

Mr Williams refereed each bout of the evening, which began when Cannock’s Lee

Gunter opened the show with a 40-37 verdict over Nuneaton’s Kristian Laight. Gunter went straight for Laight’s body and enjoyed success.

Shrewsbury’s Lenny Evans enjoyed a successful start to his pro career when he claimed a 40-36 decision over Blackburn’s

Naheem Chaudhry. In a bout between two switch-hitters, Evans’ superior quality ensured him the victory.

Tamworth’s Tommy Silcox bested Norwich’s Duane Green by 40-37. Silcox’s defence is not always water-tight, but he was always in control here and looks to be improving.

Dordon’s Kelcie Ball repeated a win over Stourbridge’s Kevin Mccauley by way of a 60-54 verdict. When Mccauley tried to take over in the second, he was punished sufficiently to get back behind his guard. They both slugged it out in an entertaining final round, where each had their moments, but Ball was once again the victor.

THE VERDICT The retiring Broadhurst can be proud of his achievements.