"An absolute nightmare" is how Basildon Freestyle Kickboxing Club trainer Rod Judd described proceedings after his club's representatives suffered a night of bad luck during their latest outing in Epping.

The club sent six fighters into action, all hoping to continue their all-conquering reputation in inter-club circles, but with an uncanny number of freak injuries and narrow decisions it soon became a night to forget for the majority of Basildon's contingent.

First into the ring was 15-year-old Gary Brennan who got Basildon off to a flying start with a classy win over Aveley's Paul Jones.

Next out for the Pitsea-based club was Mick Arthur, 37, who made his boxing debut against 34-year-old Noel Williams, from London.

Despite giving away four kilos, Mick gave a creditable performance before losing to a narrow points decision.

Highly rated Jamie Egan was next into the ring for the newtowners, taking on London's Carlos Andretti in a keenly anticipated encounter.

Jamie took the opening round after some frantic exchanges but was pulled out by his cornermen in the second after badly twisting his knee.

Fourth man in for Basildon was 15-year-old Danny Betis - taking on Georgie Groves from Fulham in a five-round, Junior World Title clash.

The fight was a major step up in class for Danny, but he held his own until the end of the second round when an old knee injury resurfaced to end his hopes of glory.

Injury also played a part in Ricky Judd's return to the ring after a lengthy lay-off. The 17-year-old was pitched against Chesham's Ashley Gettings, 22, and the pair did not disappoint as they both went for a full-blodied attack from the start.

Ricky gave a thunderous display during the opening two rounds but was pulled out by his cornermen after sustaining two blatant low blows which rendered him unable to continue.

The final entry for Basildon saw 27-year-old Mark Peters out against Ben Lloyd, 20, from Heathrow in a technically-fought, three-round encoun-ter.

A clinical display from both men ended with Lloyd taking the spoils with a narrow points victory.

Basildon's three cornermen - Rod Judd, Chris Day and Andy Brown - were all disappointed with the results on the evening but wanted to stress their pride for their fighters and the ever-growing travelling support.

"Accidents and injuries can happen in any sport and, of course, will affect results," said Day.

"It was just one of those nights. However, all of the lads did well and they will bounce back into action soon."

Big trio on show

Basildon Freestyle Kickboxing Club's next action comes in the shape of big guns Dave Jenkins, Neil Burns and Scott Cameron when the trio compete in an evening at Bethnal Green's York Hall on April 8.

Tickets and coach seats for the night are available now.

Contact Rob Judd on 07712 588701 or 07803 127271 for further information.

Battling braves - (left to right) Basildon's Jamie Egan, Ricky Judd, Mick Arthur, Mark Peters, David Bettis. Garry Brennan is pictured at the front with his winner's trophy.

Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL

By Stuart Hillis

Reporter's e-mail: stuart.hillis@notes.newsquest.co.uk

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