Round one to Ireland in sporting battle with France

YOUNG Conor Ahern got Ireland off to a flying start at the Multi-Nations Boxing Tournament in Cork last night when he out-pointed Sofiane Takoucht of France by just one point, 29-28, to win the light flyweight title and reverse a decisive decision which went to Takoucht at the inaugural EU championships in Toulon last month.

This was a spectacular performance from the Baldoyle youngster who was having only his fourth senior contest and is heir apparent to the national senior light flyweight title which will be decided at next month’s championships.

Last night he faced an enormous task. The Frenchman had beaten him 28-17 in Toulon so he a big margin to reverse and, for much of the contest, it appeared as if it was an assignment that was beyond him.