MORWENSTOW sprang a surprise by beating AFC St Austell 2-1 in the East Cornwall League Roy Radford Cup final thanks to a double from Norman Foster at Pennygillam.

The Greens stunned their opponents by taking a 2-0 lead with a vibrant first-half display, then held out under a barrage of pressure after the break.

And Foster, known to his teammates as ’The Moostow Messi’, lived up to his billing with a mesmerising, match-winning moment.

The striker opened the scoring from the penalty spot after a cross from Aidan Davis had been handled.

Moments later came the crowning second goal, Foster shifting the ball between two defenders before gliding past two more challenges and applying a cool and clinical finish.

It was no more than Morwenstow deserved having started on the front foot and created several openings.

Sam Hockin had a downward header saved by Anton Lake, while Foster and strike partner Tom Shadrick both went close in a high-tempo start.

Saints responded by sending on first-team defender Martin Giles at half time and the momentum shifted instantly with Will Tinsley drilling home from inside the area.

Suddenly, St Austell were dominating midfield and it seemed only a matter of time before the equaliser would come.

Yet, there was no way through.

Even without Dave Hales, who has enjoyed an outstanding season but was away on Honeymoon, the Morwenstow defence stood firm. Adam James, Shaun Thomas and teenagers Alfie Birchmore and Joel Davey played their part in a resilient back four.

At times this campaign, veteran Wayne Harding has resembled an Olympic gymnast with his unique brand of acrobatic goalkeeping.

And the 49-year-old stopper provided another example of his unexpected agility, brilliantly diving left to keep out a powerful drive.

When another shot crashed back off the post and trickled wide via the shin of James, the Greens must have sensed it was their night.

There was still time for St Austell to fire against the bar and have a strong penalty appeal turned down before the final whistle brought joy and relief for the underdogs.

With a blend of youth and experience, Paul Jenkin’s team have competed well to finish fourth in the league.

As skipper Arron Bailey lifted the cup, Morwenstow’s first team were able to celebrate their first silverware for nine years.