THERE were a lot of positives to take home for the boxers after their poor outing in the ring.
Coach Azmi Md Yunus said his charges should not be disheartened as it was their first Commonwealth Games outing against vastly superior opponents.
Azmi added that their experience in Birmingham would be a steep learning curve as they prepare to be better for the Cambodia SEA Games next year.
In the 48kg flyweight category, Mohd Abdul Qaiyum Ariffin was outboxed by Botswana’s Rajab Mahommed 0-5.
Mohd Imdad Ahmad Shaharom’s bout against Scotland’s Matthew McHale ended early in the third round when the referee stopped the contest in the 51kg bantamweight category after the Malaysian was hit in the head three times. Azmi said despite the outcomes, he was satisfied with their commitment.
“Both are from the development programme and they are just 21. They have a long way to go. This is their first Commonwealth Games, so it is not right to be harsh on them,” he said.
“They fought against boxers who were vastly experienced and competed in lots of top competitions over the years. McHale for example is a top-five ranking boxer in the world.
“But my boys gave everything they had in the ring.
“The defeats would make them stronger, it was a valuable experience. This is part of our long-term programme for them.
“These bouts in Birmingham will prepare them well for the Cambodia SEA Games.
“We have more competitions planned and we will confirm them after we return home.”