BOXING: ELLESMERE Port's Golden Star boxing club could be on the verge of big things with more than a dozen recruits currently being moulded into the big-hitters of tomorrow.
And a trio of fighters have already had their introduction to the ring after taking on novices at Wrexham's Maelor ABC last Friday.
Although the results failed to steer Golden Star to victory, head coach Carl Teasdale was delighted.
Among those taking part were Tony Cridland, 13, Ashley Dodd, 15, and Ashley Poole, 15. Matty Beaton, 18, was supposed to fight but his bout was called-off late.
Carl has 14 youngsters on his books at the Cromwell Road-based gym and the next three or four months will see the vast majority of them take on their first opponent
Carl, who quit the fight game 10 years ago, said: 'These lads came to me about 18 months ago as raw novices. They've been training three times a week and we felt they were ready to step into the ring.
'The three who fought last Friday were all very nervous but were raring to go and keen to learn. Matty's fight was cancelled, which he was absolutely gutted about.'
Among those boxing on the night was six-and-a-half stone Tony Crid-land, a pupil at Stanney High.
Carl said: 'He loves boxing and although he's not very strong, he does have a lot of skill. Unfortunately, his opponent was taller and beat him to the punch. It was a bit one-sided but Tony fought all the way and loved it.' Next up was Ashley Dodd who entered into a spirited contest and gave his all. And it seems he should have won but the contest was awarded to his opponent - a decision not appreciated by the crowd.
Carl said: 'We couldn't believe he lost, and neither could the crowd. It was an outrageous decision.'
There was more controversy when Ashley Poole seemingly had a convincing win in his bout, only to be defeated by a majority decision.
But a proud Carl said: 'Your first fight is always the most nerve-racking. But they have learnt so much and I'm extremely proud of them.'
