Boxing: Air Force goes 1-3 in second session of quarterfinals

  • Published
RENO, Nev. (AFNEWS) --  Despite four strongly contested bouts, the Falcons went 1-3 during the second session of quarterfinal bouts at the National Collegiate Boxing Association Championships April 12 in Reno, Nev.

U.S. Air Force Academy senior Joe Conrad was the lone member of the Air Force boxing team to register a victory in a session that featured 18 contests in eight different weight classes.

Academy junior Clifford Moore was the Falcons' first match of the night at 156 pounds. Moore and opponent Larry Mitros of Maryland were evenly matched throughout the bout, but the judge's scorecards gave a slight advantage to Mitros, as Moore's season ended with a lost decision.

Conrad was the Falcons' next contender, facing Mike Matternick of VMI at 165 pounds. This bout also went back and forth, but Conrad prevailed to earn the decision and advance to the semifinal round of action.

A pair of Army boxers caused grief for the Falcons, as the Black Knights took two decisions from Air Force. Senior Evin Negron, who arrived at the competition site just over 24 hours prior to his bout, was unable to sway the judge's decision, as they gave the 175-pound bout to Steve Solaja. Sophomore Boyce Loomis, making his first appearance on the national stage, lost a 185-pound decision to Ovidu Iacob.

Action continues April 13 with the semifinal round of NCBA action. The Falcons have seven contenders remaining in the competition, with senior Willie Lloyd not scheduled to compete until April 14's finals due to just two athletes at 112 pounds.

NCBA QUARTFINALS - ROUND 2

156-lbs.: Larry Mitros (Maryland) dec. Clifford Moore (Air Force)

165-lbs.: Joe Conrad (Air Force) dec. Mike Matternick (VMI)

175-lbs.: Steve Solaja (Army) dec. Evin Negron (Air Force)

185-lbs.: Ovidu Iacob (Army) dec. Boyce Loomis (Air Force)

Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link)

Click here to view the comments/letters page