Boxing - Khalid Yafai defeated but left hungry

Aug 18 2008 By Ian Johnson

BIRMINGHAM’S young Olympian Khalid Yafai leaves Beijing beaten and disappointed but hungry for more.

The highly talented but inexperienced 19-year-old flyweight was outpointed by old hand, Cuban Andris Laffita Hernandez, 9-3 in the second round having had a bye in the first.

Yafai admitted: “I was not at my best. I could have done so much better. I was probably a bit overawed by the experience. But what an experience.

“I loved every minute of being in the GB Team and I would love to still be in it in four years’ time in London, especially if my brother Gamal also makes it.

“I felt I did all I could and the score was closer. The Cuban was a very good experienced fighter and he will probably go on to win the gold medal.

“A year ago I wasn’t even thinking of the Beijing Olympics. I was thrilled to get there.’’