Michaela Walsh chasing gold after impressive display in Sofia

Michaela Walsh guaranteed Ireland at least bronze at the European Elite Women’s Championships in Sofia, Bulgaria, yesterday.

The Irish feather edged Helina Bruyevich — her second victory over the gutsy Belarusian since 2014 — on a split decision to book her ticket to Monday’s semi-finals at the 11th edition of the tournament.

The Belfast-born EU champion, wary of Bruyevich’s wild right hooks, and opponent were ticked off for not engaging in the second round and Walsh soaked up a sweeping left at the start of the third.