Maltese snooker legend Tony Drago was crowned champion of Week 42 of the Snooker 900 tournament in Reading after a dramatic evening that will long be remembered as one of the competition’s most thrilling.

Drago not only secured his place in the final in spectacular fashion but then produced another masterclass to lift the trophy.

The final league match of the week delivered extraordinary drama. Going into the decisive encounter, Drago and England’s Rebecca Kenna were level on 11 points, while Tony Knowles led the standings with 13 points and held the tournament’s highest break of 61.

Victory for either Drago or Kenna would guarantee a place in the final, while the loser would have to rely on the tie-break criteria.

Kenna’s task appeared almost impossible after falling 2-0 behind. She needed to win the remaining two frames and produce a break higher than Knowles’ 61 to keep her hopes alive.

The English player staged a remarkable comeback, levelling the match at 2-2 before finding herself needing a break of 62. She reached 61 before potting the next red to complete a 62 break, securing the required high break and seemingly booking her place in the final.

However, the drama was far from over.

After Kenna missed her next opportunity, Drago responded in sensational fashion, producing a superb clearance of 69 to win the deciding frame and seal a 3-2 victory, finishing top of the group.

Ironically, despite her defeat, Kenna also progressed to the final thanks to her outstanding 62 break.

In the title decider, Drago showed why he remains one of the sport’s most entertaining players.

Nicknamed “The Tornado”, the Maltese star dominated the opening four frames to establish a commanding 4-0 lead at the interval and appeared to be cruising towards the title.

Although he had the chance to wrap up the final with a perfect 5-0 victory, Kenna refused to surrender and fought back to keep the contest alive.

Nevertheless, Drago maintained his composure to eventually seal the title, capping a memorable week with a deserved championship victory in Reading.