This year two boxers made the trip down to Shefield Institute of Sport to represent Strathclyde in the mens novice section. Both boxers had enjoyed a sucessful season so far winning the Scottish University Championships at their respective weight categories. The Quarter-finals were held on the 25th of February, Craig Hunter was up first for Strathclyde competing at 67kg aginst Colin va der Plaskin. In the first round Craig found it difficult to adjust against the southpaw fighter from Manchester but a good defence saw him through. Craig looked more settled in rounds 2 and 3 and was able to pick up a convincing 17 – 9 points win.
Craig Hunter (Red) vs Colin van der Plaskin (blue)
Representing Strathclyde at 75kg Ross Jackson was drawn against Jack Haslett of Durham Universtiy. Ross boxed well throught his bout picking up points behind a decent jab. It was a good performane from Ross and he went on to claim a narrow points victory 11-9 against a strong opponent.
Ross Jackson in the Red Corner
The semi-finals were held on February 26th , Craig was drawn against Murad Khan from the Universtiy of Essex. Against a shorter opponent Craig used his longer reach to his advantage. Boxing at range Craig was able land cleanly with straight shots. The contest was eventually stopped by the referee early in the third round, after a strong left upper cut was landed by Craig allowing him to progress to the final.
Craig Hunter winning after the referee stopped the contest
In the other semi final Ross Jackson faced Dale Martin of Northumbria University. Martin proved to be a difficult opponent and Ross found himself behind on points after the first two rounds. In the third round Ross should great resilience and superior fitness, but unfortunatly this was not enough with Ross losing the fight 18 – 10.
Ross Jackson (red) vs Dale Martin in the Semi-final
The Final took place on Saturday the 26th of March where Craig was up against Calum Spours of Swansea University. The bout started at a fast pace with Spours taking the share of the points in the first round. The second round was closely matched with both boxers landing some clean shots to both head and body. In final round Craig was unable to overcome the points deficit and had to settle for the silver medal after a 19- 13 defeat.
