LIAM Craig gave a rousing performance to round off Wye Amateur Boxing Club’s (Wye ABC) first dinner show of the year at Hereford Sixth Form College.

The Wellington footballer gained a unanimous victory decision over Ludlow’s Mark Roe in a bout which tested both boxers’ stamina.

Craig dominated the first-round with sharp shots and his fast hands in the next round kept him in front.

The final round saw both boxers dig deep, with Roe trying to rally, before the bell brought a big cheer from the packed audience.

Wye ABC and the Sixth Form College staged the sell-out show which raised £2,300 for the annexe area of St Francis Xavier’s Church in Hereford.

The annexe needs major repair work and is used by youth groups, pensioners and handicapped children’s groups.

Wye ABC senior coach Del Strachan said: “It’s the first time we’ve held a show at Hereford Sixth Form College - and it was a fantastic success.

“Stephen Scott Lee and staff worked very hard on this charity show, and it was a pleasure to put this show on with them.

“We had some fantastic Indian dancing during the meal, 10 bouts that filled the evening with classy boxing and a couple of tear-ups.”

Lee Jenkins won his fight against Lions ABC’s A Timmins, an opponent who was a step up in class for the Wye boxer.

And the female section of Wye ABC were also in action with Sarah Whistance outclassing her Bolsover ABC opponent .

Two Wye ABC debutants, Jacob McNally and Ace Probert, had opened the show in a non-decision skills’ bout.

Strachan said: “Skills bouts are a great way to introduce young boxers to competing in front of a crowd but without the pressure of having to win.

“Both lads boxed well and showed good sportsmanship.”

Head coach of Wye ABC, Darren ‘Dazzo’ Williams, said a highlight of the night had been the bout between Aran Smart and Royal Leamington Spa’s S Blake.

Smart twice put his opponent on the canvas during an explosive fight.

Junior performers Nicky Gibbons and Cory Gammage also gave impressive displays.

Wye ABC’s next boxing show is being held at the Three Counties Hotel in Hereford on Friday, May 22.

Tickets for the show are available from Richard Roberts on 07854 538996.