O’Rourke remains on course for European glory

Aoife O’Rourke remains on course to retain her European Elite boxing title after winning her semi-final in Serbia this afternoon.

The Castlerea boxer defeated Isildar Busra from Turkey to reach this weekend’s final in Belgrade.

The reigning champion got the verdict on a split decision after a review of the fight, although there was little doubt that O’Rourke was the more positive, aggressive boxer over the three rounds.

O’Rourke is now guaranteed a silver medal, with the possibility of upgrading to gold and becoming a three-time European champion this weekend.

Earlier in the day, reigning Olympic champion Kellie Harrington suffered a surprise defeat in her semi-final against Serbia’s Natalia Shadrina.