Christina Desmond has missed out on a silver medal at the Women’s European Championships in Sofia.

The Cork middleweight was beaten on a split decision by Maily Nicar of France.

In the other semi-final, Leeds’ Natasha Gale has reached the final by beating Lauren Price of Wales to guarantee at least a silver medal in her first major international tournament.

Gale is aiming to prove herself in the 75kg category while team-mate Savannah Marshall takes time off after this summer’s Olympic Games in Rio.

Defeat means Desmond and Price must be content with bronze medals.