Express & Star

Lions duo chasing Midlands success

Osama Mohamed and Matthew Ford will be flying the flag for Lions Boxing Club in the finals of the Midlands Junior and Cadet Championships.

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The teenagers box for area glory in xxx on Sunday, looking to claim a title and progress to the national stages of the tournament.

Ford, who fights in the 60kg category, will step into the ring against West Warwick's Harvey Powell in confident mood following an impressive display in his Midlands semi-final bout.

The 14-year-old dominated his contest against Harley Bissell to claim an unanimous decision and earn praise from Lions head coach Kev Dillon.

"Matthew is a nice little southpaw and he dominated the fight from start to finish," said Dillion. "It was a very pleasing performance."

Mohamed, 15, will be fresh for his fight with Darren McKeown, of Hall Green, at 54kg after receiving a bye at the last four stage.

Lions just missed out on having three boxers gunning for glory this weekend with Ricco Southall just missing out after losing on a split decision to Jack Ross.

"Ricco put on a great show and it was a very close fight," added Dillion. "I thought he had nicked the first round and the second one was a close call.

"He came into it more in the final round but unfortunately the decision went against him.

"These things happen in boxing. They are only kids, but Ricco will learn from it.

"Hopefully Matthew and Osama can perform well over the weekend. Everyone at the gym is wishing them well, but whatever happens it will be good experience for them."