Coral’s weekend in pictures: Saunders crowned, darts drama

Young arrowsmith Ricky Evans’ expression of surprise and delight, as he dumped darting cult hero Simon Whitlock out in the first round of the 2016 PDC World Championship, says it all.

It was weekend for the next generation, potentially symbolising the passing of the baton, as The Wizard’s spell was broken, leaving the Aussie to follow in the footsteps of Kim Huybrechts and Ian White in also making shock first round exits to oche prodigies.

Chelsea in turmoil

Interim coach Guus Hiddink and Chelsea legend Didier Drogba watched events unfold alongside Roman Abramovich and, though the Blues beat Sunderland 3-1, ‘The Special One’ was still firmly centre stage.

Smith comfortably retains world title over Kelly

In the first defence of his WBO light-middleweight title, Liam Smith comfortably outgunned Jimmy Kilrain Kelly to retain his strap and edge closer to a more high-profile showdown next year, with Miguel Cotto being called out by the Merseysider. Smith categorically broke his opponent down in the early stages before Kelly’s corner threw in the towel as the champion retained his belt through a seventh-round stoppage.

Saunders outpoints Lee to become world champion in Manchester

Saturday’s main event at the Manchester Arena witnessed the crowning of a new world champion, as Billy Joe Saunders outsmarted Irishman Andy Lee to take the WBO middleweight title and continue his rise to boxing stardom. Lee had entered the ring as the defending champion but was quickly downed twice in the third-round, which proved costly as the judges eventually scored the fight 114-112, 115-111 and 113-113 in Saunders’ favour.

Igahlo inspires heroic Hornets

As the Hornets delivered sting after sting in their surprise 3-0 win, the above exuberant celebrations were inspired between potent partners Ighalo and Troy Deeney. It’ll be a very Merry Christmas in Hertfordshire.

Bale silences boo boys with cracking quartet

Unfairly-maligned Murray pips stars to prize

For the second time in three years, Scot Murray lifted the prestigious prize, after his efforts helped Great Britain to a first Davis Cup victory for almost 80 years. Not bad Murray, not bad.

AP McCoy lifted by Lifetime Achievement Award

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