With scores locked at 70-apiece in the dying stages of Saturday's clash with Kingborough, Launceston was crying out for a hero.
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Kicking against the wind but within striking distance of their first-ever Windsor Park victory, Tigers kept Launceston scoreless for 12 minutes until Blues debutant Bailey Gillow won a high free-kick just inside the 50.
The 16-year-old's left-foot kick had both the required distance and accuracy, and saw teammates run from defence and even the interchange bench to celebrate.
"I heard Thorpy [coach Mitch Thorp] scream at me and telling other people to get out of it and let me go back and kick it," Gillow said.
"He's like 'just go back, kick, slot it right goal post' and yeah. Everyone on the ground [got around me], I was really happy with it."
A late inclusion after star trio Fletcher Seymour, Jay Blackberry and Dylan Riley withdrew, Gillow became the second Blue to debut alongside his brother this season after Jake Hinds returned for a one-off game with younger brother Jayden in round 10.
Gillow's debut capped off a stellar month which also saw the St Patrick's College student represent Tasmania's SATIS side in Victoria.
"At the start of the year I didn't even think I was going to play D-league, so I was real happy even getting a D-league game," he said.
"And then I just kept working hard and I eventually got rewarded.
"It was pretty good, I was really excited and nervous at the same time, it was awesome playing and being around them all."
ELSEWHERE IN SPORT
Older brother James, who has enjoyed a breakout year in seniors after winning a development league flag last season, said he had been "pretty proud" to play with his younger sibling.
"It was pretty good - a big day for the family I think," the 20-year-old said.
"I didn't think he'd have the distance but he slotted it."
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