Central boxing duo propel Yorkshire to away success

Central EBCs Awais Liaqat representing Yorkshire against Isle of Mans Sam Gelling. Picture: Gary Weightman/VanninPhotos.com

Liaqat boxed the Isle of Man’s Commonwealth Games representative Sam Gelling and produced a terrific display.

In an all action bout, Awais gave as good as he got against the home favourite before he was edged out on a split decision.

The 700-strong crowd gave the pair a standing ovation after the fight, which was judged bout of the night.

Billy McIver extended his winning record to three straight bouts with victory over the Isle of Man’s Jak Morris.

Morris is two years older than McIver and it was the first time the Central boxer had fought without headgear.

McIver took the bout to his opponent and almost forced a first round stoppage.

Morris came back to win the second but McIver produced the better work in the final session and showed his class in the final 30 seconds of the last round to secure a split decision win.

The Central duo, who are coached by former Dewsbury professional boxer Mally McIver, helped Yorkshire secure a five bouts to three victory and there is already talk of the Isle of Man travelling to Yorkshire for a return match.

Yorkshire and Central EBC trainer Mally McIver said: “It was a fantastic experience for the lads and it was an excellent trip.

“Awais said he had really enjoyed the experience of travelling away and representing Yorkshire and I was really proud of all the team.

“Henry Wharton travelled with us and walked the Yorkshire lads into the ring for their bouts which added to the experience.

“It was great to see Awais and Sam Gelling get a standing ovation after their bout, with even the judges applauding both fighters efforts.”

Billy McIver, along with Central stablemate Hamza Hussain were due to box in a show in Sheffield on Wednesday night in what is proving a hectic spell for the Batley gym.

n Cory O’Regan represented Central EBC at the England Elite National Boxing Championships in Liverpool a fortnight ago.

Cory was drawn against Great Britain boxer Luke McCormack in the lightweight (60kg) quarter-final stage and although he put up a brave fight, the Batley man was edged out by the eventual tournament winner.