Evans calls it a "stupid game" after reaching Grand Slam!

RICKY EVANS dubbed it a “stupid game” after keeping alive his Christmas party hopes at the Ally Pally.

The wacky Kettering ace produced three excellent displays in Leicester to book his place at the Grand Slam which starts on November 14.

Evans reached the Slam a day after a torrid Pro Tour season ended that saw him miss out on the World Championship.

He beat Thomas Lovely 5-3, William O’ Connor 5-4 and Cristo Reyes 5-3 to seal the deal.

A deep run at the Slam will force him into the world's top 40 and earn an Ally Pally spot, and he will also have an opportunity at the last chance qualifier at the end of the month.

Evans is well known for his Christmas-themed walk-on and attire at the Palace.

He said: “Just when you thought thank god no more Rapid Ricky on your TV screens.

“He only goes and plays properly. Stupid game.”

Stephen Bunting also qualified for the Slam along with Joe Cullen, Alan Soutar, Niko Springer, Rusty-Jake Rodriguez, Mail Kuivenhoven, Bradley Brooks, Carl Sneyd and Tom Sykes.

Some of the big names missing from Wolverhampton are Gary Anderson, Danny Noppert, Peter Wright, Mike De Decker, Daryl Gurney, Damon Heta and Dave Chisnall.

Image by Taylor Lanning.