HEAD coach James Ford is optimistic York City Knights could have another local “gem” on their hands following Matt Chilton’s encouraging Bootham Crescent bow.

The 20-year-old, a deadline day signing from amateur neighbours York Acorn, made an immediate debut for his hometown pro club on Sunday, being named the sponsors’ man of the match as Ford’s men beat Coventry Bears 68-6 to stay level on points with Bradford Bulls at the top of the Betfred League One table.

Ford praised Chilton’s secure display at full-back in wet and windy weather and reckoned there were “lots of good indications” the youngster was set for a fine future in the pro game.

Ford said of his performance: "There were lots of positives about how he played.

“He’s 19-turned-20 but looks really confident and assured. He made a couple of half-breaks and he took some good catches in difficult conditions.

“Playing in the back three when it’s windy and greasy is challenging, but he was pretty safe."

He added: “Coventry defended pretty well on the edges and made it tough for him (in attack), and he probably wouldn’t have come across that before.

"As we get more time with him and improve his pass selection and sharpen him up a little bit, I think we could have a little gem in Matty Chilton."

Chilton scored three tries in three outings during a trial spell with the Knights over pre-season and, while he returned to his community club before term started, Ford kept tabs on him as he continued to stand out for the Blue and Golds in the National Conference League.

The youngster duly penned a deal with the Knights until the end of the season last Friday, with a view to winning a contract for 2019 - following in the footsteps of fellow former Acorn star Joe Porter.

Ford added: “He's got a good attitude, he’s a good kid and the boys love him already.

“He’s willing to work hard for the group as well, so there are lots of good indications around him.

“When he gets more familiar with our team and how we play, I think he will kick on to another level."