Liam closing in on title

Shropshire boxing hope Liam Davies is two victories away from becoming an English champion.

The 13-year-old from Donnington Amateur Boxing Club reached the semi-finals of the National Schoolboy ABA championships with a convincing victory in Liverpool.

Liam continued his impressive form with a points success over Ethan Bibby, of Vauxhall Motors ABC, in the quarter-finals of the under 38kgs category on Sunday.

The Telford youngster made a slow start, but gained control in the second round and sealed the victory with a strong finish in the third session when he connected with a host of straight right and lefts.

All five ringside judges ruled in favour of Liam who enjoyed a unanimous decision.

"Like he has done in his previous contests, Liam started slowly but he was a comfortable winner in the end," said his father Tristan, himself a professional.

"He is looking good and we feel as though he has a good chance of winning it."

Liam, who has now won 26 of his 32 contests, is due to be back on action the weekend after next when he takes on Sunderland's Travid Waters for a place in the final.

The official venue for the semi-final has not yet been decided, although it is understood Barnsley is the likely destination.