Connor’s crown

ROBBIE CONNOR (right) on his way to victory.

NOTTINGHAM was bursting with Oldham pride after hard-hitting Robbie Connor claimed the ABA senior novice 75kg class ‘A’ crown.

The 19-year-old, from Shaw, came from behind to beat hot favourite Billy Elder, who was representing the Royal Navy, on points.

It was a debut win in the championships for Connor and a first for the OIdham Boxing and Personal Development Centre, which only started in September.

The novice division of the ABAs are aimed at boxers who have had fewer than 20 bouts, but Connor displayed qualities beyond his years to overcome his more experienced rival.

With his uncompromising relentless southpaw style, Elder had decimated his previous opponents and was tipped to take the national title.

Elder opted for a counter-punching approach from the first bell, and the tactic worked as the Marine won the opening round.

But Connor duly adapted his style and went on to out-box and out-fox the Royal Marine from round two onwards.

However, it was far from plain sailing for the local fighter. As Elder’s desperation grew, the intensity of the attacks increased, and he connected with a powerful left hand, which caused slight damage to Connor’s right eye.

But the teenager was undeterred and was awarded a points decision, and joins Ronnie Heffron and Thomas Stubbs on Oldham’s recent ABA honours list.