On Saturday night March 2nd, a 15 strong Esker ABC Team took on a County Cornwall Team. Featuring strong Juvenile to Elite boxers on both teams the night was set up to be a cracker.
Jamie McCabe, Luke Beakhurst and Shane O’Neill lost to very good Cornish boxers to put Cornwall into a 3-0 lead. Jake Meegan and Sean Balfe both lost on split decisions and the night was heading Cornwall’s way despite fantastic performances from all boxers up to that point. Senior boxer Joe Mooney stopped the run of losses with an outstanding display to start the fight back. In next was Christian O’Brien who boxed beautifully to take the decision. Elite boxers Evan Fitzgerald and Luke Maguire both defeated top Cornwall boxers to get the score to 5-4. Adam O’ Malley was unlucky not to get the nod and lost despite a spirited display. Cameron Bennett got the Irish boys back on track with a fantastic display. Chris Brady gave it everything and just fell short after a huge performance. The last bout of the night was also the bout of the night as David Bicevas took on Cornwall’s Dylan Courtney in what proved to be a three round thriller that had the 700 strong attendance on their feet throughout. The end result was Cornwall 7 Esker ABC Ireland 6.
Tadgh Nolan and Robbie Loscher received walkovers unfortunately.
Esker Boxing Club would just like to thank everyone in Cornwall ABA for hosting them over the weekend and treating them like royalty. A particular mention to two men who have transformed Cornish boxing over the last few years, Wayne Salmon and Tony Houghton. They couldn’t have done enough for everyone and Esker ABC are genuinely looking forward to having Cornwall in Dublin in the coming months. A huge thanks to all of the Cornish officials especially Claire, Karl, Richie and all for the outstanding officiating.
(Pictures and cop courtesy of Edward Griffin)
