N Ireland backs ‘innocent victim’ boxer

GOLD COAST: Northern Ireland have given their full backing to “innocent victim” Sean McComb after the Commonwealth Games boxer was fined over a disturbance at a nightclub on Australia’s Gold Coast. The light-welterweight, 25, was fined by police following an incident in the Surfers Paradise area early on Tuesday morning. His Games had ended on Sunday when he was defeated by England’s Luke McCormack. Northern Ireland Commonwealth Games Council (NICGC) managers said they had studied CCTV footage “that raises concerns as to the accuracy of the initial information” and had asked Queensland police to review their decision. “The NICGC has reviewed the latest evidence and determined that team sanctions will not be taken against Sean in relation to this incident and we can confirm that he remains an integral member of the boxing squad and the wider team,” said the statement. “In our opinion he is an innocent victim in this matter and he retains the full support of the NICGC.” The NICGC is seeking legal advice, it said. Northern Ireland’s boxing team were visibly angered by coverage of the incident involving McComb.