Boxing: Amateur club puts on sell-out card

The ‘Men in Green’ had three fighters out on a 10-card show that attracted some top name boxers from clubs all around the south of England.

First out for Forest was Daniel Fox against East London Boxing Academy’s Ismail Qureshi.

Fox, who has had a spell out of the ring showed good footwork and composure throughout his return. 

Ultimately, though he lacked the power to really cause a very game opponent any problems and in the end Qureshi ran out a unanimous winner.

Next out and making his debut for the home club was Joe Payne against East London’s Patrick Maughan.

Despite giving away a slight high advantage, Payne showed no signs of nerves as he repeatedly landed some excellent body shots.

And with neither boxer showing any signs of let up the crowed were treated to an excellent contest, which eventually went unanimously in Payne’s favour. The performance would also see the Forest youngster win the ‘Best Junior Boxer’ award on the nigh

Senior Patrick Bonjanea was the final Forest fighter to step through the ropes in a four-rounder against Finchley’s Shafioliah Sahak.

Both fighters went at it from the opening bell, in a contest that had the crowed on its feet, as some telling shots were landed by the pair. A standing count, however handed to Bonjanea in the second ultimately resulted in the Finchley man getting a unanimous verdict from the officials.

Reflecting on events head coach Chris Baker said: "What a top night of boxing in front of such an excellent crowd

"I thought all of our lads gave a good account of themselves, and I was particularly delighted with how intelligently Joe boxed."

Meanwhile Waltham Forest was listed in two categories at the council’s annual sports awards evening last Thursday.

Firstly the club itself was recognised as one of the best in the local area, while coach Simon Millard’s efforts also saw him gain recognition for the work he does throughout the year.