Kyle Lapham earned the man-of-the-match plaudits in Saturdays 4-0 defeat at Huddersfield. Ref: 77235-47KYLE Lapham could yet be handed a Swindon Town reprieve although manager Andy King is anxious to avoid making 'rash' decisions.

The 19-year-old right-back put in an accomplished debut display on a calamitous afternoon at the Galpharm Stadium.

The visitors were reduced to nine men and crashed 4-0.

Lapham, who was not even on the team sheet, was handed a starting place just 15 minutes before kick-off after Steve Jenkins suffered a reoccurence of his calf injury.

It meant a debut for the third-year scholar, recommended to manager Andy King by youth team coaches Iffy Onuora and Ian Woan.

As it stands, Lapham has no guarantee of a professional contract next year and King will reserve judgement until after Saturday's final game against Chesterfield.

The Huddersfield match also saw debuts for first-year scholar Ben Wells and second-year striker Ashan Holgate.

Michael Pook and Andy Caton also figured against the Terriers.

All five are eligible for tonight's Youth Alliance Cup final at Burnley.

King said: "They have to be threats. They've got to be able to go play in your first team. Lapham proved against Huddersfield that he might be able to.

Lapham has said to me 'hold on, this kid might be able to handle it'.

"He's defended magnificently. The kid has been tremendous.

I may have to apologise to Mr Woan and Mr Onuora.

"Maybe I'm wrong, I'm not always right. Maybe I've made a mistake? If Lapham plays next week, and I probably will give him the opportunity, we'll see.

"We'll have a look at him next week, we won't make any rash decisions."

The youngster himself is hoping he may have a future at the County Ground, and he said: "The gaffer has said he'll leave it open to me and see what I can do."

Lapham might not be the only youngster handed another opportunity.

King may have to delve further through his youth resources through necessity.

David Duke and Rory Fallon are suspended for the Chesterfield game, while both Grant Smith and Christian Roberts picked up knocks against the Terriers.

King said: "The big question is will I find two more kids for next week? I don't know if I've got them."