SWINDON Town assistant manager Tommy Wright tipped his cap to debutant goalkeeper Archie Matthews after the 19-year-old performed admirably during the club’s 2-1 victory over Northampton Town on Saturday.

Matthews, who is a first-year professional at Town, was given less than half an hour’s notice before being thrust into the starting line-up for his first senior appearance after emergency-loan stopper Jo Jo Wollacott pulled out with a knee injury.

Matthews would have been disappointed to see Ryan Martin’s first-half strike burst through his hands, but the inexperienced teenager did not let that mistake affect him as he went on to make a few good saves later in the match.

Explaining the situation which led to Matthews’ introduction, as well as the early diagnosis on Wollacott, Wright said: “Jo Jo came out for the warm-up after training all week and he was feeling his knee.

“We sent him in so the doctor and physio could have a look, and they didn’t think he could go on to play the game. I don’t think it’s serious, I don’t think it’s a long-term thing, but Archie came in and he did well.

“He didn’t have time to think about the game, but he did well, and he’ll benefit from that.

“Sometimes the lack of preparation stops you thinking about the game – if he knew he was playing, he might have had a sleepless night. But he came in and did well, and I’m pleased for him.”

In front of Matthews appeared a disjointed and at times disorganised Swindon side – especially in the majority of the first half.

Struggling Northampton – who have not won any of their previous 11 matches – dominated the ball for large spells and appeared to have the hosts’ number until Twine’s intervention shortly before the break.

Wright admitted the start to both halves was not acceptable from his team, but the attacking intent they set out with is apparently designed to combat any flaws on the defensive side of their game.

He said: “Our game plan was to be as attacking as possible because we feel we need to score more than one goal to win games.

“We’re not a team who, even though we’ve won 1-0 a couple of times, are known for being a great defensive team.

“We knew if we could get the ball to Jordon Garrick or Scott Twine, we could build our play through the three in midfield and create chances for Brett Pitman to score.

“We think that if we give him chances, he will score – his record says that throughout his career.”