Carroll hits all the right notes

GRIMSBY Boxing Academy super heavyweight Craig Carroll took his record to two wins from two contests with an explosive display in Leeds.

Carroll was up against Craig Jeff, of Barnsley Star ABC, in a bout which featured two men weighing a combined 32 stone.

Carroll won his first fight in Wales earlier this season.

The Grimsby man started the fight confidently, taking the centre of the ring and throwing big shots behind a strong jab.

It was clear early on that the Yorkshireman hadn't arrived just to make the numbers up as he took the punches well and met Carroll toe-to-toe.

In round two, Carroll settled nicely, putting his punches together well.

Carroll pressed forward with a double-jab right hand that wobbled his opponent, only for the referee to intervene with an eight count.

The boxing recommenced with Carroll finishing the round strongly.

Round three started with all in the room on their feet. The men met in the centre of the ring throwing big bombs.

It was the stronger punches from Carroll that did the damage and the referee stopped the action to look at a swelling under Jeff's eye.

The referee indicated that the damage would not interfere with his vision and, with only seconds to go in the contest, let the action continue – which raised the roof of the crowd as both men went for the stoppage.

The final bell sounded in what was an entertaining bout, with the decision going to Carroll on a unanimous points decision.

Also boxing on the night was 13-year-old Ben Shaw, in his second contest, against Callum Simpson, also of Barnsley Star ABC.

Shaw started fast, throwing good combinations.

However, it was the more purposeful punches from Simpson that edged the first round.

In round two, the more experienced Simpson waited for an opening before rushing in with good straight punches, backing the Grimsby man up to the ropes.

Although Shaw threw plenty of punches, most were well-blocked.

The Grimsby man had most of his success in the third round as he started to settle in and find his range.

The referee had to deduct a point from Shaw in this round for continuously slipping and rolling too low.

This seemed a little harsh, but proved costly as the Yorkshire man ran out a unanimous points winner.