GAME DISPLAY

Evening Post, Volume CXXV, Issue 108, 10 May 1938, Page 5

GAME DISPLAY

BOXERS AT AUCKLAND

ENTHUSIASTIC SPECTATORS

(By Telegraph—Press Association.)

AUCKLAND, May 9.

A scene without precedent in the Auckland boxing ring, if not in New Zealand, was witnessed at the Town Hall at the conclusion of a lightweight professional preliminary contest between Bob McLachlan, Auckland, and Johnny Dean, London. Spectators were roused to such a high pitch of enthusiasm that they showered coins and ten-shilling notes into the ring. There were loud calls of "Bring him back." This referred to Dean, who lost the decision to McLachlan on a technical knock-out, the referee intervening in the last round when Dean was in difficulties. It was remarkable stamina and ability to absorb punishment on the part of both men that won them the crowd's great appreciation. The return of Dean to the ring was the signal for a tremendous outburst of applause and cheering. This was renewed when McLachlan was also brought back, and there was immediately another shower of coins from all parts of the house. It was subsequently announced that £12 6s had been realised, and that it would be divided equally between the contestants.

The principal bout of the evening was a catchweight professional one between Cyril Pluto, Australia, and Clarrie Marshall, Gisborne, the latter gaining a popular decision on points at the end of ten three-minute rounds.