Shropshire cueman Adrian Gunnell is out to topple “living legend” Steve Davis tomorrow – and book a first ever appearance at the televised stages of snooker’s World Championship.

Gunnell has slipped to No 46 in the provisional world rankings, but would make significant strides forward if he defeats the six-time world champion.

It would also see the Telford potter achieving a lifetime’s ambition by finally earning the chance to play at The Crucible in Sheffield – venue for the World championships in May.

The Steel City is also the venue for the qualifying competition, with the Institute of Sport hosting tomorrow’s final round meeting with The Nugget.

“He beat me twice last season, but in the last 18 months I’ve been as low as I’ve ever been in snooker,” said Gunnell.

“I’ve made a massive improvement in myself in the last three weeks, and I know if I turn up with the same attitude, I’m in much better shape to do the business.”

Gunnell admits Davis retains an aura as one of the greats of the game and he is excited about another opportunity to face him over the table once again.

“He was my idol when I was growing up,” the Shropshire potter added.

“He’s achieved so much and I’d love just a tenth of it. It’s always special to play him, he’s a living legend.”

Gunnell set up his clash with Davis by defeating Joe Delaney 10-7 on Thursday evening in what turned into an epic.

The Telford man started in electric form to open up an 8-0 lead but was pegged back to 9-7 before finally finding the resolve to cross the winning line.

“I never took it for granted when I was so far ahead, because I’ve been around long enough to know what could happen,” he said.

“I’ve never been a great frontrunner. From 8-1 at the end of the first session, you shouldn’t lose even to Ronnie O’Sullivan if you go about your game right.

“But those first four frames in the evening were porbably the worst I’ve ever seen, let alone played. I couldn’t play or see the balls properly – for anything over 5ft I was just guessing.

“If I play anything like that tomorrow then I’m in big trouble, but I was proud of myself that I held it together and came through.”

By CHRIS HUDSON