Bootle manager Joe Doran could not have been more proud of his players, as they produced a magnificent performance to beat Everton U21’s on penalties, in their Liverpool Senior Cup semi-final.

Doran said: “I'm really proud of the lads tonight, they were excellent. “I was especially impressed with some of our players and their attitude in particular - especially the younger lads. I expect it from the senior lads as I know them well. But to be honest I had to go with lads tonight that would listen and want to learn and most importantly want to do well for this football club, and that at the end of the day has worked for us,” added Doran.

Who was surprised at the team the blue’s fielded against his side. “First of all I was surprised with Everton’s squad, as in the last round they played their under 18’s against Marine.” The bucks’ boss also admitted he couldn't see his side winning once he saw the blues team sheet. “I know I said in the press before the game that we were looking to win the game, as we’re the current holders of the trophy. But when I saw their team sheet at 4 o’clock, I honestly couldn't see us winning the game with all the experienced players they had playing.”

Doran also expressed his delight in how side stuck to their game plan. “The lads executed the game plan perfectly. We worked on our game plan last Thursday in training and talked about it on Saturday. “We set about closing them down when we could and sitting deep to try and get them to beat us instead of us beating ourselves. “It could have been so easy for us to start diving into tackles when we got tired and going for balls that we wouldn't make. But when you play against young full-time professionals, they have the ability to take the ball away from you and play in one of their team mates in.”

The bucks’ boss also praised a number of his player’s performances. “I don’t want to single anyone for praise, because all the lads done well, but I’m going to have too. Docker (Daniel O'Connor) upfront was unbelievable he worked really hard. Billy Smart was exceptional in midfield, he was on fire tonight. Chris Lowe, Neil McQueen and Jamie Hay were all solid and Georgie Robertson, who hasn't played for a few weeks through injury and playing out of position at left back, did really well against two very good wingers in Conor McAleny and George Green.”

The bucks love affair continues in the Senior Cup as they turn their attention to a final against Tranmere Rovers. The date has been confirmed as Monday 28th April 7.45pm KO at Prenton Park.