Mayo boxer wins European Championship semi-final

MAYO boxing star Shannon Sweeney has secured at least a silver medal at the European Senior Boxing Championships in Belgrade after a stunning win this afternoon. The St Anne's fighter overcame the hugely talented and aggressive Anush Grigoryan from Armenia thanks to a terrific counter-punching performance which saw her get the nod from all five judges.

However, going into the final round, the result was far from decided with Sweeney ahead on two cards, 20-18, but level on three others, 19-19. It all came down to which boxer won the final three minutes and Grigoryan went on the front foot as soon as the bell rang.

She powered forward but Sweeney showed superb boxing skills to hit and move as the powerful Armenian came at her. Grigoryan tried to overpower the Westport woman but Sweeney's movement was outstanding and as the round progressed her opponent became more and more frustrated.

Sweeney punched the air when the final bell sounded and looked exptremely confident that she had done enough while Grigoryan's downbeat expression also told a story.

All five judges had been impressed by Sweeney's style and skill in the final round and gave her the nod to secure a unanimous victory, 30-27, 30-27, 29-28, 29-28, 29-28.

Sweeney now progresses to the European Championships final on Saturday afternoon.