CARDIGAN junior boxer Max Kirkwood’s strength and relentless pressure earned him a split decision victory over Llanelli’s Shaun Price at Tenby.

The lively contest saw Kirkwood coming forward from the start, throwing an array of straight punches.

Although Price (Stallions ABC) produced greater variety, Kirkwood’s determination saw him clinch a narrow victory.

Fellow Cardi boxer Josh Mellor – fresh off his triumph in the Welsh Novice Championships – found himself on the wrong end of a split decision against Narberth’s Jack Parkinson after what proved a barnstorming encounter.

Mellor rocked his opponent with a big right hand early in the first round, but was unable to capitalise as Parkinson worked hard behind a good left jab to keep himself out trouble.

After both boxers had given their all for three rounds it was Parkinson – the Welsh Novices 92kg champion - who was adjudged a narrow victor.