Beaming St Mirren boss Danny Lennon was delighted with his side after they booked their place in the semi-finals of the Scottish Communities League Challenge Cup thanks to a 4-2 win on penalties against Aberdeen.
The Buddies twice led against the home side, and eventually eased through after Stephen Hughes hit the crossbar, and Cammy Smith saw his spot-kick saved by Craig Samson.
Lennon said "I'm a very proud man. I thought the boys were like gladiators. They fought right to the end. The character the boys showed throughout the game was first-class. To lose the lead in the dying minute of the game was very difficult to take and the boys showed great character to take us over the line and take it to penalties."
He added: "If every game was like that, stadiums would be full across the country. I think both sets of fans were entertained throughout. It was a good game of football to watch."
Aberdeen manager Craig Brown was understandably disappointed to miss out on another semi-final appearance but urged his men to refocus quickly.
"I'm desperately disappointed," he said. "I can't fault my side for effort and commitment, but we didn't get the breaks. I thought we would have the psychological advantage after coming from behind twice, but it wasn't to be.
"We should have been 3-0 up after five minutes, but St Mirren took their chances and that is what enabled them to progress.
"We can't allow this to affect our league form. We have to take it on the chin, take a deep breath and make sure we recover at the weekend."
Twice the Buddies had led through goals from Sam Parkin and Kenny McLean, but first Scott Vernon and then, in injury time, Josh Magennis, levelled matters.
However, St Mirren edged the game on penalties as Samson made the decisive save from Smith.
