David Lilley beats Jimmy White in World Seniors Snooker Championship at The Crucible

David Lilley wrapped up the World Seniors Snooker Championship at The Crucible with a 5-3 win over Jimmy White in the final.
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The three-time English Amateur champion was playing in the final stages of the event for the first time, while "The Whirlwind" was bidding for a third consecutive World Seniors title.

Lilley earned his competitive debut at the Crucible after coming through the initial Q-School qualifying in Reading earlier this year.

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He built up a 3-0 lead before White, who last year recovered from being 4-0 down in the final, levelled it at 3-3 before Lilley pulled away again for victory.

David Lilley was playing in the final of the event for the first time. Photo: Andy Chubb.David Lilley was playing in the final of the event for the first time. Photo: Andy Chubb.
David Lilley was playing in the final of the event for the first time. Photo: Andy Chubb.

"I'm a bit speechless, I didn't think I'd get this emotional," he said.

"Jimmy is my hero - he's everyone's hero. I'm just so happy."

Victory means the 45-year-old from Washington, Tyne and Wear, has earned a place in November’s Champion of Champions tournament in Bolton.

Lilley beat Philip Williams, Ken Doherty and Patrick Wallace on his way to the final.