Luke Clarke rediscovered his form to gain revenge over Eltham's C Moriarty as Southend ABC staged their first dinner show for ten years.

Thirteen-year-old Clarke, on the back of a string of defeats, was the first local boy in action in the marquee outside Ego nightclub, and he stopped the rot with a fine display to earn a majority decision in front of 300 boxing fans.

Ryan Kinsella suffered the only stoppage of the night, with A Sergio of Broad Street showing strength and quick hands to force a ten-count at the end of round one.

Of the big boys, ever-improving Shaun Tyson was in commanding form to blast his way to a unanimous points win over Chalvedon's 6ft 8in gaint T Edwards.

Top-of-the-bill Andy Cullinane, still suffering from a back injury, was less successful, losing unanimously on points after an electifying bout which raised the roof.

There was a huge disappointment for local favourite Mike Hangers, who is proving incresingly difficult to match, when his opponent again failed to show up.

Club captain John Cullinane has also suffered a blow with news that he will be out for the season after suffering a serious finger injury.

Youngster Jordan Gosling has had better news with another England call-up - his second in successive years - after shining at the English Schools Championship.

Former world champs Terry Spinks and Sammy McCarthy were at the show, while Leigh pro Danny Hunt handed out trophies and advice. Alan Jones and Mick Hanger organised the event, which raised hundreds of pounds for the club.

Published Wednesday, April 30, 2003

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