Gold for St Monica's boxing duo

Gold for St Monica's Murphy and McGuinness

ST MONICA'S enjoyed a succesful weekend as on Friday night James McGuinness claimed gold to become the Antrim Open 75kg champion with a win over Noel Grew from St Paul’s BC in Belfast.

His club mate Ryan Murphy also claimed gold in the Antrim Open 80kg with a third round stoppage over Jake Walker from Bosco BC in Belfast.

On Saturday morning Murphy then flew out to compete in the Manchester Box Cup on Saturday afternoon. After knocking out Mohsin Ahmed from England Murphy booked his place in Sunday’s final. Once again, this young man put on a great performance to stop Sean Headon from England in the third round.

Coach Owen Murphy was proud of his young fighters.

“This was a great weekend for the lads and the club,” said Murphy.

“James had a great win on Friday night controlling the contest, working the jab well Ryan has only turned 19 and has had three fights in three days with three stoppages, one in Ireland and two in England. Ryan is just coming of age in boxing where you step up to the next level. He is developing into a fine athlete. He dedicates his life to this sport and has what it takes to go the whole way.

“The lads will rest up now for a couple of days, re-group and get ready for the Harringay Box Cup in June.”