Norfolk's Scott Moises came within a whisker of winning his first title as a professional at the weekend.

The 24-year-old made the long haul to Plymouth as a late replacement to take on home favourite Jamie Speight for the Southern Area super-featherweight title.

But despite a hugely encouraging performance, Moises lost on a points decision, 97-95, over 10 rounds - the first time he has been past six in his fledgeling career.

'It was really close and a great effort by Scott,' said trainer Graham Everett. 'Everyone at ringside knew it was close - the ref who scored it said Scott needed to win the last round to get a draw, so that shows what sert of margins we are talking about.

'He came through 10 round for the first time ever and hasn't got a mark on him.'

Moises took the fight a fortnight ago, after Speight's original opponent, Londoner Mickey Coveney, was KO'd by a virus.

'It was a late call, but we never had any hesitation in accepting the fight,' said Everett. 'How much of an effect that had is hard to tell, but Speight's camp have promised us a rematch.

'Scott boxed well - Speight is a busy boxer, very lively, but Scott dealt with him, and we thought Scott had won. Scott thought he had won, but it's up to the referee and, while disappointed, we don't have amy complaints with that.

'He had no problems with 10 rounds and the fight will stand him in good stead.'