AN AMATEUR Droitwich Spa boxer is destined for great things according to his coach after putting in a top performance to beat an established fighter.

Marc Bonehill, aged 15, defeated Welsh champion John Connors during a West Mercia v Welsh Select ten clash in Pontyclun last Saturday.

Bonehill's bout appeared to be the toughest on paper at the team event but his sharper skill and determination saw him to a comfortable victory.

Someone will really cop it

With nearly a quarter of a century of experience, Droitwich Amaetur Boxing Club coach Chris Andrews knows when he has a quality boxer on his hands.

He said: "One day someone will really cop it when Marc gets into top gear. He has as much potential as anyone I have seen over 24 years at the club."

Marc's result was part of West Mercia's overall 6-4 victory, which included three other wins from Spa fighters Adam Mytton, James Boyle and reigning English Schools champion Michael Pardoe.

Andrews added: "I was delighted with the form of Pardoe, Bonehill and Mytton. They needed a stiff work out after the long summer break."

Light heavyweight Boyle, aged 25 and making his debut, delighted the crowd with a cracking contest against Chris Bradbury (Pontypool).

The two maintained a frantic pace throughout two closely contested rounds although Boyle was always in the driving seat. Bradbury sustained a cut on his nose during the second round and at the start of the third the referee called time.

Pardoe was up against Thomas Hearne (Towy), fresh from representing Wales at an international tournament.

Unanimous decision

Apart from a sustained attack in the second round, Hearne was always under pressure and 15-year-old Pardoe won with a unanimous decision.

Mytton, aged 14, was put to the test by Kyle Durham (Highfields, Cardiff). Undefeated last season in four contests, Mytton needed all his speed and determination to maintain his record.

Durham proved a strong and aggressive opponent and Mytton relied on clever footwork and fast hand speed to stay clear. He was at his most effective in the third round, as Durham tired, and took a unanimous verdict.

Pardoe, Bonehill and Mytton will join 16-year-old Anthony Bonehill this weekend at the National Association of Clubs for Young People Championships.