Cliff's tribute to classic final

FORMER world snooker champion Cliff Thorburn has paid tribute to his ex-foes Steve Davis and Dennis Taylor as the sport prepares to mark 40 years since the famous ‘black ball final’.

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Thorburn (pictured), who became the first overseas winner of the Crucible title in 1980, recalled being a riveted spectator as Taylor clawed his way back from 8-0 behind to clinch the crown in dramatic fashion long after midnight.

And the sight of Taylor gleefully wagging his finger at the television camera upon his moment of victory came as a particular surprise to the Canadian, who had been beaten 13-5 by Taylor at the quarterfinal stage.