BOXING

Patea Mail, Volume LII, 2 March 1931, Page 2

BOXING

ELAY V. DOXOVAX. ENDS IX A DRAW. One of the most exciting boxing contests ever staged in the Dominion was witnessed at Xew Plymouth on Saturday night by an audience of about .1000 people, a good sprinkling of ladies be ing present. The combat was between Donovan (Waitara) and Elay (Australia). Both contestants weighed in at the same weight, and Elay was about a head taller than his opponent. From the word go the pair set a terrific pace and tine referee had his work cut out to keep the boys within bounds. On several occasions both had to be eamtioued for using unfair tactics. Donovan made the most of his great strength by forcing Elay and trying to prevent him from standing off and boxing. The first few rounds were in Donovan’s favour, when about half-wny through Elay landed a great blow, which floored Donovan, and the referee started to count, but Donovan managed to rise .jinst before the count was ended. 'The light went the full 15 rounds at a tremendous pace and the referee’s decision of a draw, which was considered by good, judges to bo a good one, met with a mixed reception.