India’s L. Devendro Singh again found his nemesis in Paddy Barnes as he was forced to settle for the silver medal in the men’s light fly (49kg) weight category in the boxing competitions at a packed SECC hall here on Saturday.
The two had met in the quarterfinals at the London Olympics two years ago, with the Northern Ireland boxer overcoming the Indian quite convincingly then. The script changed little today as Barnescarried too many guns for his 22-year-old rival.
Truth to tell, the Indian was in no way disgraced. He fought his heart out but Barnes was too skilful. He waited for Devendro to attack thus leaving his guard open for him to unleash his powerful counters.
He was quite liberal with his praise for Devendro: “It was a very tough fight for me — the toughest of all here. But what stood me in good stead was my experience.
“Winning the first round is the key to victory. So I really went for it from the first bell and I think that set the tone, although he was one hell of a tough competitor.”
Devendro seemed happy with the final result and said, “It was a fair result. He beat me. I lost to him at the London Olympics and I hope I can beat him next time we fight.
Earlier, Sarita Devi, also hailing from Imphal in Manipur, too finished with the silver in the women’s light (57-60) weight division.
Up against Shelley Watts of Australia in the final, the Indian had a great start by getting a full-blooded left on to her rival’s face. Though this sent the Australian into the defensive it was not long before Watts clawed her way back into the match.
She was consistent with her attacks against a rival who seemed caught in a hurry. Making good use of this advantage, the Australian kept her cool and finished an easy winner on points.
“I have had a tough time through the last two years to make a come back. I had only four months to train for this Games and the final was quite a tough one. But I am happy with the result,” the 29-year-old said later.
