Islington BC’s Callum Angel-Taylor warmed up for the upcoming junior championships with victory on a Holland Park ABC show at the Hassenbrook Academy, Stanford-le-Hope.

The 15-year-old was back in the ring for the first time since September and controlled his 57kg clash with Louie O’Doherty (Chelmsford ABC) from the start.

Angel-Taylor landed some eye-catching uppercuts and right-hand shots as he moved onto the front foot and wore down his opponent, working both head and body.

Despite tiring in the final round, the Islington boxer was a clear winner and it was something of a surprise that he gained a split rather than a unanimous decision.

Islington’s Ernie Swinhoe was in action on the same show, but he lost out in a 55kg contest to J Booker (Atherstone) after relying too much on his counter-punching ability.

Two other youngsters from the Hazellville Road club took part in skills contests – 11-year-old Sonny Devine facing Holland Park’s P Casey, and William Nantu, 12, taking on another home boxer, J Love.

Islington BC heavyweight Sherif Musah will make his first defence of the English title this weekend at Rainton Meadows, Co Durham, against Declan Fusco (Birtley ABC).

Musah secured the newly-created title last month by overcoming the experienced Gary Daley (Southend) in their clash at York Hall.