CHEPSTOW boxer Pat Mullane failed in his bid for European glory in Russia at the weekend, writes Bob Cypher.

Mullane, 16, was drawn against a Russian boxer and although he put in a strong performance, it wasn’t enough to persuade all the judges and he lost on a split decision.

Chepstow BC head coach Steve Woods said he was disappointed for Mullane.

“Along with my assistant coaches, I thought he had done enough to win it but it wasn’t to be,” he said later.

“His opponent is through to the semi-final and I hope he goes on to win the title because Pat knows how close he was to winning his bout.”

Despite the disappointment, the club began the new season successfully as Cai Dean (11) and Tommy Dolan were winners at a show in Cardiff.

“Cai took on Iestyn Bird of Rhoose ABC who had won their previous meeting on a split decision,” Woods added.

“That was Cai’s only defeat so he was determined it wouldn’t happen again and he started at a ferocious pace forcing the ref to give Bird a standing count.

“Cai continued when the bout resumed and the ref had no choice but to stop it.”

Next in the ring was 12-year-old Dolan, who took on George Hopkins of Rhondda ABC.

“Dolan put a lot of pressure on his opponent throughout round one and by the end Hopkins was starting to tire,” Woods said.

“Hopkins came out all guns blazing at the start of round two, but Dolan withstood this and returned a very strong attack, and again the ref stopped the bout in Dolan’s favour.

“Cai’s older brother Kayd (13) was last up for Chepstow, but although he kept the pressure on his opponent in a close bout Kayd lost on a split decision.

“I was very pleased with all three boxers. Our club is known for producing very fit athletes and these three all showed that.

“I will be looking for a rematch for Kayd as I’m sure that with a little work in the gym we will avenge the loss.”