Jonte Smith was delighted to seize the opportunity handed to him in Tuesday night's Leasing.com Trophy tie with West Ham United under-21s.
The forward started his first game in a Robins shirt and rewarded boss Michael Duff for his inclusion by registering a hat-trick.
His goals were crucial in helping his team come from behind to secure a 4-3 win over the Hammers youngsters, and keeps the club's interest in the competition very much alive heading into next month's final group game.
"It felt like a basketball match at times," he said. "Up and down, up and down. We didn't start the best but as a team we came in at half time and the gaffer had a few words and we took them on-board and changed the game second half.
"I've been dreaming for this moment for a long time and I'm happy that it's finally come.
"I've been working hard and hoping that an opportunity would come my way and to do my best to take it when it comes.
"We push on from here. This game is done now - we move onto the next one and we keep going."
See more from Smith reacting to his hat-trick and the win by watching above for free on iFollow.
With Saturday's scheduled home game with Newport County postponed due to the Welsh side having international call ups, the next Robins match takes place at Walsall on Saturday 19 October.
Tickets and away travel for the game in the Midlands are available from the ticket office.