Michaela Walsh: 'Defeat to Elena Saveleva will help my preparation for Rio 2016'

Ireland's Michaela Walsh has said that her women's bantamweight boxing defeat to the Russian Federation's Elena Saveleva will stand her in good stead for Rio 2016.

Walsh was knocked out of the European Games in Baku following a 3-0 defeat at the Crystal Hall on Saturday, but the 22-year-old has suggested that the loss will allow her to learn in time for the next Olympics.

"I just couldn't get the sharpness but I hope she gets the medal. She's a brilliant girl," Walsh told reporters. "I'm going to take everything from this competition. I came here for the gold medal and it's disappointing, but I'll learn from it. It's all experience for Rio."

Saveleva's Russia currently hold top spot in the medals table.