THIS weekend saw the Welsh Novice Championships Final close to a draw in Swansea. Colcot ABC having already secured three titles in the run up, it was left to the remaining six boys to compete for the coveted Welsh Vest.

First up was Jake Turnbull facing Pontypridd boxer Scot Richards in the Minor 34kg Final. Straight out from the bell Jake used his fast moving feet and danced around his opponent firing long straight shots keeping his opponent at bay and scoring with good counter punching. After three good rounds by both boxers Jake's hand was raised in a unanimous decision.

Next was Brandon Phillips's turn to take stage in the 36kg category against Grange Catholics boxer J Mailford.

Phillips dominated throughout the rounds with his strong going forward style which has earned him his nickname "the Terminator". Never giving his opponent a moments rest Brandon quickly forcing referee Gary Maredith to administer standing eight counts, it was a long three rounds for the Grangetown boy with Phillips winning a comfortable unanimous decision.

Brandon's older brother Calvin Phillips was up against a more experienced boy in the shape of Billy Unsworth from Shotton, North Wales in what was described by fans as a real nail biter with the fight swaying back and forth until the final round, when Calvin finally took control with long jabs to win by split decision.

Last into the ring was Kevin Gillen facing local boy Stacy Pearson who had brought half of Swansea to support him.

Not being fazed by this, Gillen commanded the fight throughout with accurate counter punching and good footwork. By the end of round two, Gillen had tired his opponent with his educated pressure, in round three it seemed more like a World title fight with both boxers giving their all but it was Colcot boxer Gillen's hand that was raised in a unanimous victory.

There was disappointment for club mate's Ethan Dobbinson and Hendrick Schabow who came up against strong opposition from North Wales, unfortunately losing in tough contests.

This year’s novice championships were a good one for the gym with seven out of nine boxers winning the finals. There is more to come from the highly rated Colcot boxing club with an evening of amateur boxing, showcasing all of its champions and the rest of its team of boxers at Barry Island sports and social club on November 21 which is not to be missed. It cost £10 for adults and £5 under 10's to guarantee a seat at this event please contact ticket sales on 07875 234140 or 07525 494070.

The club would like to thank Dean at C J Contract hire for helping with travel arrangements for this championship.