After a thrilling final at the Estádio Universitário in Lisbon’s University complex, the Bray local admitted that he was in shock after winning the match despite being behind for the majority of the final.

Moran said: "I feel numb just now, I cannot believe it.

"It has been a lot of hard work since my first international appearance in Rio back in 2006.

"Hopefully this is just a stepping stone to next years World Cup in Belfast and the Paralympic Games in London 2012."

Moran, who finished fifth at the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games, got off to a slow start going down 2:0 to Fernandez in the first two ends.

However, demonstrating extreme composure, he levelled the match at 2:2 going into the final end and despite a biased home crowd cheering his opponent; Moran maintained his focus to come out on top 3:2.

Team manager Jacquie Connolly said: “I am delighted for Padraic.

"This victory has come at just the right time for Padraic in advance of the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

"He has come through the ranks, learned his trade and deserves this accolade.

"He is a deserving World Champion."

This is the end of a long Championship for Moran, who earlier in the week led the Irish team to a fourth place finish in the BC1/BC2 combined team competition.

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