Mark Janes’s brace saw Riverside lift the Oxfordshire FA Sam Waters Sunday Cup for the first time with a 2-1 win over Oxford Yellows in a hard-fought final at Oxford City.

Riverside’s triumph also fulfilled a long-held dream for club and Oxford Sunday League founder Bill Bowell, who had been trying to win the competition for more than 40 years.

Janes fired Riverside into the lead with a well-struck effort after 20 minutes in a half of few clear-cut chances. Yellows, who finished runners-up last year, battled back after the break and were soon level through Tom Gaughan.

There was nothing to choose between the two sides until Janes was fouled by the Yellows keeper in the box, and he got up to fire home the resulting penalty. Yellows tried to battle back, but Riverside’s defence held firm to clinch victory.

Bowell, who founded Riverside in 1991 and is the club chairman, secretary and treasurer, was overcome with emotion at finally lifting the cup.

“I have been trying for many years for this trophy even when I was with Elmsbridge Sports,” said the 75-year-old former referee, who was also one of the Oxford Sunday League’s founders in 1966. “Tears came to my eyes on Sunday – they really did.

“The manager who I took on four years ago, Damiean Thomas, has given his all and worked as hard as anything. It is thanks to him for what he has done for me and the lads are a great bunch.

“To win the Sam Waters is the cream of all things. I also thank Oxford Yellows for the competitiveness of the final and making it a memorable day.”