DARREN Morgan is European Seniors Snooker Championship king again after claiming an eighth straight title in Bulgaria.

The 57-year-old Gwent potter lifted the trophy for a 13th time in Albena and then went on to enjoy another success in the team event.

The former world number eight joined forces with Llanelli’s Philip Williams to defend the title that they won in Albania last year.

Morgan was up against six former professionals in the individual tournament, including the recently-retired Lee Walker.

The Welshman won all matches in the group stages without losing a frame and came close to a 147 against Ireland’s James Darcy when missing the 15th red.

Morgan beat Finland’s Ville Pirila 3-0, Ireland’s John Farrell 4-0 and Belgium’s Peter Bullen 4-0 to set up a repeat of last year’s final against Wayne Brown.

The Englishman, who had been edged out 4-3 in 2022, started rapidly but Morgan kept cool and eased to a 4-1 win.

His teammate Williams was beaten in the semis so it was Gary Milne standing in the way of another trophy.

Morgan was 3-2 down but won three frames on the spin to ensure it was an eighth triumph on the spin.

He said: “The final was a little bit of a scrappy affair with both of us struggling at times but also playing some good stuff.

“We were a little inconsistent with so much at stake and it was hard for me because I had never really seen Gary play before.

“I knew he had nothing to lose and had been smashing in the breaks but I eventually got over the line with a great clearance to win the match 5-3.

“I’m thrilled because it now gets me into the World Seniors 2024 at the Crucible, which is massive, and it was also another European title.”

Morgan then joined forces with Williams and they eased through the group stages and into the quarter-finals where they beat Germany in a clash that was tougher than the 4-1 scoreline suggests.

They won an entertaining semi-final against Malta’s Duncan Bezzina and Alex 4-2 to set up a meeting with England’s Milne and Brown.

“I really thought this was going to be a close match but we played absolutely terrifically and were comfortable winners by the score of 5-1,” said Morgan.

“We could not of predicted that score but we were so happy to get the win. I love playing for my country and putting on my Welsh Vest is special.

“I have been very lucky to have been so successful again at amateur level after my professional career came to an end – I think my tally now of international championships has now gone to 35 championship wins, 24 in Europeans and 11 worlds.”

Former world champion and number one Neil Robertson will be playing in an exhibition at the Red Triangle Snooker Club in Cross Keys on July 21 and 22. Contact the club for ticket information on 01495 271991.