Archie hits out to take ABA crown

Tadley boxer gains the decision over title favourite

TADLEY ABC'S Archie Hutchins left favourite John Newell beaten and groaning after his clear points victory lifted the 17-year old to the Junior ABA title on Sunday.

Newell's camp had gone into the final at Rochester's Passion Night Club as clear favourites, the Shannon and Ancoates club member from Oldham having won the title last year.

But Hutchins belied the odds and kept Newell in check from the start of the four-two minute rounds.

He covered the Lancashire lad's blows, taking most of them on his gloves, and controlled the bout from the centre of the ring, taking the chance to score with nearly every shot.

And having taken the best that Newell could offer, Hutchins finished strongly and took 11 points in the final round.

The judges scored it clearly in Hutchins' favour, 27-18, leaving Newell's corner bemoaning the decision but Hutchins with the reward for a textbook display that rewarded his single-minded pursuit of the title, opting to stay clear of his corner during the breaks and remain focused in the ring.

Hutchins' success in the 75 kilo class six category will give him a shot at the Haringey Cup in London next month and probably a spot in the Englanld Tri-Nations squad in October.

Thames Valley ABC's Chelsea Allen bids to clinch a place in the final of the ABA's junior girls championship when she takes on Hollie Martin-Wood at Harlow Stadium.

Meanwhile, her club's show at Thatcham Town Football Club was hailed as "electrifying."

For full report, see this week's Newbury Weekly News and for pictures of the night, follow the link.