TAVISTOCK Amateur Boxing Club’s Matt Rush and Josh Chapman were selected to represent Devon and last weekend travelled to Exmouth for the Devon versus Cornwall local derby in the inter-county series.

An early disappointment was waiting for Matt when his opponent weighed in at nearly four kilos overweight and this bout was called off, much to the disappointment of those that travelled especially to see it.

   Josh Chapman was representing Devon against the Cornishman Josh Potter. Although of similar build, Potter was slightly the taller and boxed from a southpaw, left-handed, stance. The first round started well for the Tavistock man with good straight punches; his looser style and quick footwork and body movement helped to negate any advantage his opponent had. The second round continued in the same vein but the Cornishman was now coming forward and Josh found himself covering up on the ropes on more than one occasion. 

  The third round was close with good exchanges from both men. Chapman managed to keep off the ropes and used his footwork to good advantage.

   Tavistock’s Josh Chapman was declared the winner on points. He was congratulated by the Devon coach for a good win and showing spirit and some excellent potential for the future.   

An immediate request for a rematch was made by the Cornish coaches and it is hoped this might take place on Tavistock ABC’s show on March 14.