Michael McDonagh produced a superb display to make it through to the semi-finals of the National Schoolboy Championships.
The Berinsfield ABC youngster recorded a majority decision verdict to book his place in the last four of the class 2 (born 1999) under 40kg category.
McDonagh took the initiative from the first bell against rival James Freeman, from Southend ABC, in their contest in Harlow.
The clash had the crowd on their feet throughout, with both boys giving their all.
The bigger Freeman tried to impose himself on McDonagh, but the Berinsfield teenager had all the answers.
A snappy jab and straight right hands opened up the Southend boxer, allowing McDonagh to work from close range.
Cleaner punching and a better work rate saw McDonagh gain the decision.
Berinsfield now have two boxers through to the national semi-finals, which take place in Portsmouth tomorrow. Gerard Ward will take on Harry Needham, from Ted Harris Boxing Academy, in the Class 1 (born 2000) Under 48kg category, and McDonagh faces Mark Chamberlain, from Team Wiseman.
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