Three hat-tricks already this season — not bad for a player who only joined Vale AFC in the summer. Reece Rutherford’s found his rhythm fast, firing goals while keeping praise firmly on his teammates.
He’s top of the scoring charts but talks more about build-up play and balance across the squad than personal milestones. That’s exactly the kind of mindset Vale’s rise has been built on.
HAT-TRICK HERO Q&A
Name: Reece Rutherford
Club: Vale AFC
How would you describe your season so far? (Goals, form, general feeling)
I think the team is in a great position this season so far. We’re currently top of the table. Having only lost twice, we have bounced back and kept up good form.
I’ve just signed for the team this summer, I think I’ve had a good start. Currently I’m the league’s top goalscorer, but it’s all about the gameplay beforehand that leads up to that point. There’s a talented player in every position that play great spells of football.
When was the last time you scored a hat-trick?
I’ve had a few braces and fortunate enough to have 3 hat-tricks already this season.
As I’ve said before, in spells the team play great football. It’s good to watch and be a part of, and I’m happy to finish the end product.
Talk us through the three goals — which was your favourite?
The second one was my favourite, the ball was played through to me on the edge of the box, it was bouncing when the keeper came out and I lifted it over to chip him.
On average, how many goals do you usually score in a season?
I usually score up to 10 goals a season, as I used to play left back and left mid.
Tell us about your teammates
Tell us about your teammates
From the starting 11 to the subs, every player brings qualities and skills that are key to the team’s success. I’d like to name everyone if I could.
In particular, Ryan Hendry is key at right back. He is great defensively and also is a driving force on the offensive. Especially with his accuracy in crossing
Who’s the brightest player in the squad (on or off the pitch)?
Ross Smith without a doubt. He takes some pelters and dishes them out in the changing room
Who’s the dressing-room joker?
David McIntyre with the disco feet – dancing and dribbling on the pitch
Last book you read?
Henrik Larsson bibliography
Last film you watched in the cinema?
F1 movie.
If you were a superhero, who would you be?
Spiderman
Best kit you’ve ever worn — playing or supporting?
Scotland 2016/17 home kit, I wear it to training each week without fail
It’s not just the goals that stand out — it’s the attitude. If this is what Vale’s new forward brings, the division’s defenders have plenty more to worry about.
Footy Focus season 25/26 
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