Dec 22

Written by: CB
22/12/2011 08:13

 Niamh was scheduled to box Natalia Gibson from Tyne Tees but a dispute in entry procedures saw Popi Burton from SYD in Yorkshire reinstated as a finalist to face Niamh in the final.

Burton, one of the most experienced girls around at this age, started fast and forced the pace of the bout. Niamh boxed on the back foot and had some success with couter punches. However, Burton's aggression was paying off with the judges and overshadowing Niamh's cleaner shots as at the end of round one Niamh was 9-3 down. The second round was a lot closer as Niamh's tactics began to reap some rewards however the deficit remained and the score was then 16-9 with only one round to go. 

Knowing she needed to give it her all, Niamh changed tactics in the last and took the fight to Burton and pushed her on the back foot.Her cleaner punches began landing with more regularity and it was evident she was pulling back the score. The final bell came too soon however and and the final score was 20-16 to Burton.

It was a long day of ups and downs but one of great experience that will serve Niamh well for the future.Everyone at CABC is very proud of Niamh for getting so far in such a short space of time.To reach a final already and go so close against someone in their third championships bodes very well for next season!

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