Pegasus put on an impressive show

Pegasus put on an impressive show

29 May 2013

PEGASUS ABC hosted a a great exhibition of boxing in the Downpatrick RGU Club last Friday night.

Fifteen bouts took place with Pegasus boxers taking part in every contest ranging from first time debutante, to experienced championship competitors.

First on was 11 year-old Michael Flanagan against Belfast boxer Aaron Field and a cracking contest to open the show. Young Flanagan never took a backward step against a slippery opponent and should have a great future in the sport.

Next on for Pegasus was heavyweight Lucas Golubinski, who found himself up against All Black and former All-Ireland champion Matt Toner. The two big lads provided the excitement as the big punches landed, but with a high degree of skill and fine footwork over three pulsating rounds.

Antrim champion Steven Burke was matched with Saints ABC boxer Eiathan McGowan. Both lads mixed it up like two seasoned professionals and a packed crowd were thoroughly entertained.

The popular Eoin Dignam had a great little contest with Saint Bronagh’s Charlie Tinnelly. Eoin showed great improvement in this bout and is another young lad who should do well in forthcoming tournaments.

Fifteen year-old Christian Mathers was another making his debut and he was paired against Kronk ABC boxer Pierce Fennell. Christian showed some nice skills against a tall, capable opponent in another entertaining contest.

Intermediate boxer Mickey McCashin boxed Kronk lad Brandon Kane in an exciting duel. Slick boxing from the Belfast boxer against the more direct and aggressive local man. A great performance from Michael having his first outing.

Hard punching Adam Neeson boxed Saint Bronagh’s Shane McGarry. The experienced McGarry knew he was in a fight as Adam may have taken a few stinging punches, but replied with plenty of his own in a terrific fight.

Two of the club’s ladies were on in a special contest sponsored by Downpatrick Lions Club. Joanne Flanagan and Aiste Petrulyte were brave enough to step between the ropes and despite some obvious nerves, settled down quickly and put on a great show.

Three time Antrim champion Pierce Crane boxed Ulster Champion Oran Keddle from Saint Bronagh’s and a superb exhibition of boxing over three torrid rounds was enjoyed by a very appreciative audience.

Next for Pegasus was Garret Pollack and a cracking contest he had with All Black Adam Cunningham. Both lads gave their all in a very enjoyable bout.

Evergreen Michael Flanagan boxed tough All Black boxer Sean McEvoy. A great display yet again from the Pegasus man who shows no signs of slowing down.

Another good display yet again from Gary Flynn who boxed Saint Bronagh’s Michael McGarry at 64 kilos in a lively encounter.

Top of the bill in a great night of boxing didn’t disappoint. Dylan Duffy, the stylish Pegasus southpaw, has been in fantastic form all season, winning the Ulster, Antrim and All-Ireland titles, and he boxed teak-tough All Black boxer Steven Sweeney.

The very aggressive All Black pushed forward all three rounds, but the fleet-footed Duffy moved effortlessly around the ring, countering with accurate combinations.

Sweeney had his moments when rattling in two-handed attacks to Duffy’s body. It was a fantastic display from both boxers.

Dylan Duffy picked up the Tony Crane Memorial Cup for best Pegasus boxer for 2012/2013. Stephen Burke collected the Patrick Rogan Memorial Cup for best novice boxer and Eoin Dignam received the John Molloy Plaque for best club man.

Special thanks to Fergus Kelly and Sean Carville, of Downpatrick Lions Club, who presented prizes on the night and generously sponsored the prizes for the evening’s boxing.

Thanks also to Brian and his staff for all their help, Tombo Duffy for his compering, Bargainland, Downpatrick traders for their prizes for the raffle and to everyone who supported the show.