PICTURE GALLERY: All Saints ABC fight night

A sell-out crowd of almost 250 people packed out Leighinmohr House Hotel to watch some of the Cushendall Road club's up-and-coming talent, along with established boxers, show off their skill.

After a scintillating night's boxing, the contest on most people's lips was that of Joel Scullion, who came out a worthy winner against two-times Irish champion Sean Higgins.

"It was such a good fight that the MC, Harry McGavock, who has been involved in bouts all over the world, said it was one of the best fights he had seen," All Saints coach Gerry Hamill told Times Sport.

"Joel did everything he was asked to do. He employed an almost peek-a-boo style and waited until the taller Higgins had thrown all his punches before moving in."

This has been a big season for Scullion, who gained a lot of confidence from his run to the final of the Irish Youth Championships and big things will be expected of him next term.

Another All Saints boxer who has improved throughout the season is Niall McKernan who, after struggling to get past the winning post in the early part of the season, has come on in leaps and bounds and he deserved his success at 66kg.

Two All Saints boxers in the fledgling stage of their careers – Dean Hughes and Gary Miskelly – both lost but lack of experience was the telling factor in each of their defeats against much more experienced opponents, but another of All Saints' young guns, Curtis Greer, beat his opponent and he continues to show potential following his move from neighbouring Braid ABC.

Steven Donnelly was back on home soil, but a hand injury restricted him to effectively a one-handed southpaw style in an exhibition bout with Michael Bustard.

"Steven tore ligaments in his thumb while he was away in Canada boxing for Ireland A but he didn't want to let his home crowd down because he knew a lot of people were there to see him box.

"The doctor says about three weeks rest should be fine for him and by that stage he'll be getting fully focused on the Commonwealth Games box-offs on July 18," added Gerry.

Spare a thought, though, for All Saints' Vinny Esler, whose scheduled opponent didn't show, leaving the local man a frustrated spectator.

Outside the ring, auctions for various sporting memorabilia raised funds not only for the club but all charities including the RNLI and the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children.