Boxing clever

Perry King

1 More Image(s) In Gallery

BOXING:

Juniors set sights on national ABAs

SHAW’S Jack Rafferty is closing in on a first national junior ABA title.

The 17 year old, who boxes out of Joe Pennington’s Northside stable, is through to the semi-finals of the 63-67kg category on a date and venue to be arranged.

Jack booked his ticket after clinching the North-West crown at the expense of Boarshaw’s Jack Kilgannon.

Ranked as the underdog, the Hopwood Hall student was awarded victory on points after four close rounds, at Gorton.

Dad David said: “Jack was not expected to win because his opponent was a lot more experienced, but he stuck at it and everyone is delighted he got through.

“His main attribute is his fitness. He works very hard and is dedicated. He’s up at 6am and also trains in the evenings.”

Jack took up boxing at 13 despite once having football trials at Boundary Park.




PERRY King has battled his way through to the national junior ABA quarter-finals, which take place at the Cedar Mount High School in Gorton on Friday and Saturday.



Perry, an 18-year-old former Oldham Athletic youngster, triumphed at the North-West Junior ABA finals at Cedar Mount, when he defeated England international and former champion Ibby Shah.

Northside ABC star Perry, of Henshaw Street, Oldham, will now head to the last eight full of confidence in search of the 63.5kg category title.

Dad Matt said: “It was a great result to beat Ibby Shah. That really sent a message out that Perry is capable of doing well.”