A WORKINGTON amateur boxer has narrowly missed out on a place in a regional final despite a 'valiant' semi-final effort.

Alfie Govans, fighting out of Workington Amateur Boxing Club, was defeated in the North West Region semi-finals which took place on Saturday, January 20.

This was Alife's first time fighting in a bout consisting of three-minute rounds and despite a defiant display in the latter rounds the judges awarded his opponent the victory. 

Speaking after Alfie's 'hard-fought' semi-final, coach Alan Murray praised the effort of the local fighters and wished his opponent luck in the regional final.

He said: "A valiant effort from Workington Alfie Govans in the North West region semi-finals Saturday evening, stepping back in for the second Saturday night on the bounce.

"Moving up to three-minute rounds for the first time last night, Alfie worked hard throughout the contest and actually grew in confidence as the bout progressed edging the latter round also, against a very technically gifted opponent who was correctly given the nod from the judges in the end.

"The club and Alfie wish to pass on a good luck message to his opponent in next week's final."