Snooker legend Alex ‘Hurricane’ Higgins locked horns with one of his oldest adversaries Cliff ‘The Grinder’ Thorburn last night — just days after leaving hospital with suspected pneumonia.

The Ulsterman lost the match 2-0 in front of almost 1,000 cheering fans — but, for Higgins, even making it to the table was considered a victory.

The old foes were taking part in the Snooker Legends tournament at the famous Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, scene of World Champion triumphs for Thorburn (in 1980) and Higgins (1982).

Hard-living Belfast man Higgins (61) signed himself out of hospital to play in the event, and last night was the first time he has been at the hallowed home of snooker since losing to fellow Irishman Ken Doherty in the first round in 1994.

Last week, it emerged that two-times World Champion was practising for up to eight hours a day for the nostalgic series.

His agent Kevin Kelly said the match with Canadian Thorburn was emotional for Higgy.

“It brought back memories of their 1980 showdown in the World Championships here,” he said.

“That was the best live game I have seen in a very long time. The atmosphere was simply amazing.”

He added: “Alex was so eager to play he signed himself out of hospital. He is in good spirits and is absolutely fine. He told me he’s a fighter, a cat with nine lives.

“Fans came from all over the world just to watch these two legends play.

“A Canadian spectator who flew himself and his wife over to watch Alex and Cliff play won the chance to play against them — it is a dream come true for him.

“The atmosphere was better than any championship that I have ever been to. The spectators were really getting into it.

“These two are renowned foes but they shook hands yesterday and got on great and they will be enjoying a pint of Guinness together later.

“I can’t really put into words how great the crowd were. It was a wonderful night for snooker.”

Video Interview: Alex 'Hurricane' Higgins not blown out yet