A SPIRITED comeback by Highland Boxing Academy’s Donald Macphee was not enough to stop him from going out in the semi-finals of the light welterweight division at Amateur Boxing Scotland’s Intermediate Championships.
The 24-year-old started slowly in his bout against Alan Anderson (Holyrood), but he came storming back in the final round, even managing to put his opponent on the canvas.
Despite Anderson wobbling, however, he ran out a 7-5 winner on points at the Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility in Motherwell to end Macphee’s chance off adding to the Scottish Novice crown that he landed in October last year.
"It probably took Donald a round-and-a-half to get into the swing of things," said the academy’s head coach Liam Foy.
"He started to get better in the second round and was having a bit more success, but he really came into his own in the final round.
"Donald knew going into it that he was behind and it would need to a big effort, which he certainly produced.
"He floored his opponent with a strong shot to the body, who managed to make it back to his feet before the count of 10.
"However, Anderson was then looking at his corner to see how long was left as he knew he was in a bit of trouble.
"Unfortunately for Donald, there was not much time left and Anderson used the ring well, not letting Donald get near him. When he did, he made sure he grabbed a hold of him.
"Donald fought very well and it was a great effort in the last round, but ultimately it was the slow start that cost him."
Despite this loss for Macphee, Foy insists the season has still been an extremely good one for the fighter.
"There’s no doubt it’s been a successful season for Donald," he said. "To take a Scottish title is great.
"We had discussed prior to this the possibility of moving Donald up into the open class next season if he had won, but he’s not long turned 24, so he’s got plenty of time on his side.
"We’ll get him the fights he needs this year in order to gain the experience that will stand him in good stead for going back to the intermediate championships next year."
Meanwhile, Ross Houston is scheduled to make his senior debut for the academy at a show being organised by Insch Amateur Boxing Club on Saturday 11th February. He will be competing on the same card as clubmate and fellow light heavyweight Mitchell Dalton.
