Coyle had just gone 12 rounds under the unflinching stare and unyielding fists of a British light middleweight champion who was in no mood to give up his title in his first defence.

The result was an overwhelming points victory for England over Scotland.

But the real story was of the incredible heroism of a real-life braveheart.

For Coyle, while unable to threaten Rhodes' grip on the Lonsdale belt, must have made proud his two young sons in the Hillsborough Leisure Centre crowd for the way he withstood such a sustained bombardment.

Rhodes pounded, switched, danced and floated his way to a win. But Coyle stayed upright and fought a dignified battle.

In the first round, you would have put money on an early stoppage as Rhodes smashed Coyle back into his corner. The home crowd was chanting "Easy, easy." The 100 visiting Scots, so noisy beforehand, were virtually silent.

As Coyle continually bounced off the ropes, you wondered how long this could last.

But at the end of the fourth round, Coyle was looking happier, having at last landed a few of his own.

A cut appeared above Rhodes' eye in the fifth.

But it didn't stop him planting savage shots into Coyle's ribs and head.

In the ninth, the ref could have stepped in to save Coyle from more of that treatment. But every time a salvo of Rhodes punches were completed, Coyle came back for more.

The Ecclesfield man eventually eased off the gas, spending the last two rounds coasting to victory.

Speaking on an audio link to thestar.co.uk, he said:

"I knew it would be tough. I've seen a few of his fights over the past few months.

Bringing your kids to the Arena, you are going to pull it off. I just pipped him every round I felt stronger fitter than him every round . It's my first 12-rounder I've won on points.

I hurt my hands in the 9th and 10th round what a tough, tough fellow. "
Rhodes now wants to compete for the WBC International title against Vincent Vuma.

Click on the green play button to hear the interview

*Shock of the night was a third round defeat of much fancied Brampton superfeatherweight Josh Wale, who went down to Harry Ramogoadi.

*Ex Sheffield United footballer turned boxer Curtis Woodhouse said he wasn't happy with his performance against Jimmy Beech, despite a points win. He has made a decision on his career.

Full details, see tomorrow's Star.

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