Ted Lowe’s classic line on Alex Higgins as he won world title in unforgettable blaze of glory

If you could script a way to win the World Championship, the way Alex Higgins did it takes some beating.

Thinking about it, possibly Dennis Taylor’s black ball finish in 1985 may beat it. But going out in a “blaze of glory” was how it was described when the superb Higgins conquered the world of snooker three years before.

Higgins, famously nicknamed “The People’s Champion”, won his second world title by beating Ray Reardon 18-15 in a memorable final.

The Northern Irishman lost in the final in 1980 to “grinder” Cliff Thorburn but showed his magic two years later which proved his career defining moment.

This was when snooker was hitting its “boom” period in the 80s. The sport was peaking and a mesmerising Higgins was very much hitting celebrity status .

Alex Higgins called for his baby after winning world title

Many will remember the jubilant scenes after the final frame when a tearful Higgins called for his baby daughter when presented the World Championship trophy.

The scenes are still talked about this day. But the break of 135 leading up to them famous scenes on BBC television is possibly not as well known.

Like his famous 69 break in his semi-final against Jimmy White, Higgins was forced into shots of bravery as attack was his best form of defence. His opening long red is deemed dangerous by the commentator as he claims missing it would have left an enticing situation for his opponent.

Also early on in the break he’s drawn into a tricky red using the rest before cutting in a dangerous black. Again risking leaving it free for Reardon if he misses.

There were more tricky moments but Higgins managed to keep potting reds into the pockets at the most critical time. And another flash of brilliance from Higgins saw him play a beautiful canon into the pack of reds to seal the deal.

It was a break of the highest order. As Higgins finished up the wonderful clearance, legendary snooker commentator Ted Lowe said: “Controversial, temperamental but a terrific talent for the game of snooker.”

Higgins completed his clearance of 135 and became world champion. His shouts for his baby daughter will never be forgotten but the brilliant break he made is also worth its place in the history books.