SOL Gilday-Evans almost sprung a surprise in the Junior ABA quarter-finals at Bristol.

The Dorchester & District ABC member went into the last-eight bout as the underdog.

But he produced an impressive display against experienced Watford boxer John McDonagh with the latter admitting afterwards: “I thought that he had won the bout – I’ve never been hit so hard in my life.”

Gilday-Evans got off to a blistering start with his unorthodox style making his opponent feel somewhat uneasy.

The county town boxer unleashed a relentless barrage with McDonagh forced to cover up and dodge in and out in a bid to steer clear of danger.

McDonagh settled in the second round but Gilday-Evans continued to dig deep.

The former went all out in the last in a bid to conjure up a devastating knockout blow, but the latter refused to wilt.

Despite all his efforts though, the verdict went to his Watford rival.

Meanwhile, a link with Dorchester Learning Centre has helped Gilday-Evans out of the ring.

He has been involved in coaching football to pupils at both St Andrew’s and Radipole Primary Schools, as well helping to organise a football leaders’ event for pupils from Dorchester Middle School.

His positive attitude and commitment to his sports have now been rewarded as Gilday-Evans achieved his junior football leaders’ award. Boxing club chairman Steve Scott said: “Sol is amazing at everything he touches.

“He shows great maturity and has become an asset to Dorchester & District ABC.”

Anyone interested in joining the club can contact Scott on 01305 266807 or head coach Ben Geyser on 01305 832249.