Norfolk pool king Tom Cousins is the new WEPF World 8-Ball Pool champion after a memorable final at Blackpool's Imperial Hotel.
The Attleborough-based star edged out English rival Craig Waddingham 11-10 to scoop a £6,000 first prize. And it was a relieved Cousins who finally clutched the winner's trophy that almost slipped from his grasp.
Leading 5-2 and 8-4, the number two seed had a shot at the eight-ball to win 11-7.
Instead, left-hander Waddingham, seeded six and roared on by his noisy fan club, hit back to force a decider.
Cousins, nicknamed 'Tomcat', had almost used up all his nine lives. However, last season's quarter-finalist, still had the advantage of the break.
There was more drama though as he potted the 8-Ball from the break.
But with no penalty under WEPF rules, Cousins made no mistake at the second time of asking, much to his delight.
'There were a couple of mistakes but it was a good final,' said Cousins. 'But I am not bothered about the standard; I'm just over the moon to win.
'Craig got his confidence back when I missed that black for 11-7. Then I missed another chance.
'However, I had been playing well and I knew I could do it,' said the 24-year-old family man. 'The money will come in handy for a nicey holiday and I won't have to worry for a few months.'
Waddingham, from Scunthorpe, pocketed £2,500 for his near miss. But he put on a brave face after coming up just short.
' I'm working upwards: at these Championships, beaten semi-finalist three years ago, beaten finalist now so hopefully it will be third time lucky next time.'
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