DONOVAN BEATS WHITLOW

Taranaki Daily News, 30 April 1931, Page 7

DONOVAN BEATS WHITLOW

TAME EXHIBITION GIVEN. AMERICAN’S SLUGGISH DISPLAY. (By Wire —Special to News.) Wellington, Last Night. After a very tame exhibition’ that went, the full distance, Tommy Donovan, Waitara, gained the verdict over the American Alan' Whitlow to-night, winning practically every, round. Seldom did the public enthuse, save from the tenth round bnwiird, when the boxers were frequently counted out. A crowd of about 2000 was present, and. it anticipated a stirring contest. It was not Donovan’s fault they did not see it as, though weighing 9.2 against his opponent’s 9.6, and giving away height and reach, he did most of the leading and frequently sent his left hoiue. But his punches lacked sting. _ ' Donovan scored heavily in close work, the American’s ribs early showing signs of his attention. Whitlow appeared very sluggish. He possesses a powerful punch in both hands and early it "was apparent that he was looking for a knock-out. He frequently attempted solid swings and uppercuts with both hands that would have ended the rallies summarily had they connected. His slowness and Donovan’s cleverness in evasion time and again made him look ludicrous. Frequently Whitlow manoeuvred the Waitara man against the ropes aiid into an awkward position, but he seemed to be unable to take advantage ■ of any opportunity, Donovan extricating himself easily. At times Whitlow appeared to take his opponent’s measure to administer the deciding punch, blit his movements were so deliberate that Donovan was yards away before fie landed. Donovan was also most effective at in-fighting, where Whitlow was inclined to hang on. The bout was a clean one, there filing, little wrestling. Referee Perry kept it open.