KEIGHLEY schoolboy James Rutherford set the local soccer scene alight with two blistering goals against Liverpool.

James, who lives in Haworth, was the goal hero of the Bradford Schoolboys team which turned giant-killers against the mighty Merseyside squad. Liverpool are the holders of the competition and were firm favourites to hold on to their title.

The 3-1 victory put the Bradford team into the semi-finals where they face a home tie against Barnsley.

Liverpool took an early lead in the match, but Robert Morgan of Nab Wood held the Bradford defence together.

After Adam Hardy had put Bradford back on level terms Rutherford found the back of the net to put them ahead. With five minutes to go James Rutherford sealed victory following a rare Liverpool defensive lapse.

Adrian Lonsdale from Oakbank and Mohammed Viviara from South Craven School are also in the Bradford Schools squad.

A total of 240 districts throughout Britain started out in the competition and the semi-final against Barnsley is to be held at Bradford City's Valley Parade ground on April 1 at 7pm. Highlights of the final, which is played over two legs, are due to be screened by Sky TV.

l James Rutherford (right) plays with Bradford City youth teams.

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