DROITWICH Spa Boxing Academy’s Joe Doyle proved he can go the distance in more ways than one.

Doyle enhanced his growing reputation by reaching the quarter-finals of the National Schools Championship after another fine display.

The 13-year-old is a two-time Midlands champion and travelled up to Newcastle-on-Tyne for the Championship.

Doyle put on a fine showing to defeat the northern area’s leading light Billy McGuire in the elite 35.5kg category.

His counter punching and fast feet were in evidence in the early exchanges against his Darlington opponent.

And McGuire’s over eagerness left him open to a barrage of rapid combinations that ultimately led to his downfall.

Doyle’s class shone out throughout the contest as he secured a unanimous points decision from the judges for all three rounds.

Doyle’s eagerly-awaited quarter-final bout will take place in Liverpool, where he will be facing the north-west champion.