Docherty (left) lost a tough bout at the Kelvin Hall

The 25-year-old Scot was rarely in front against the Russian and struggled after an accidental clash of heads left a cut over his left eye in the sixth.

Docherty had almost no vision in his right eye in the final two rounds.

One judge ruled the fight a draw but the others two had it 117-111 and 115-113 in favour of the 33-year-old.

Docherty's manager Tommy Gilmour blasted judge Johannes Ooijen, who had given Sinitsin such a large margin of victory.

"One of the best judges and referees in the world, Bob Logist, calls it a draw, and you lost it by one round according to the Spanish judge (Manuel) Palomo," he said.

I couldn't really see too well and I didn't have much vision at all later in the fight Craig Docherty

"But where the judge from Holland learned to score a fight, God only knows.

"That's what makes you bitter about the whole thing.

"If you disagree when a fight is close that's one thing, but he was a mile out.

"I spoke to the supervisor after the fight but that's it.

"The referee also didn't do Craig any favours.

"Whether the head butt in the sixth round was intentional or unintentional is unimportant, but any time Craig tried to work, Sinitsin would lock his left hand.

"But that's how you hold onto championships, although I am bitterly disappointed."

Grandstand discussion area: What now for Docherty?

Commonwealth champion Docherty fought back the tears in front of his home town fans as he vowed to return to the ring as soon as possible.

He said: "I'm just really disappointed. I can't really say much more.

"When the referee called the doctor over in the ninth round I couldn't really see too well and I didn't have much vision at all later in the fight.

"But he's an old pro and you've got to give him his due. But I'll come again and I'll win that European title one day, don't worry about that."