Wednesday 10 February 2016 06:21, UK
West Ham's extra-time FA Cup victory over Liverpool will go down as one of the greatest nights in the club's history, according to manager Slaven Bilic.
With the game seemingly destined for penalties, Angelo Ogbonna struck in the 121st minute to seal the Hammers' progression into the fifth round.
The Hammers, who are playing their final season at Upton Park before moving into the Olympic Stadium, will now travel to Championship side Blackburn.
And, speaking at his post-match press conference, Bilic praised his side's dogged display, claiming it would go down in the annals of the east London club's 121-year history.
"It is a special night," the Croatian said. "Yes, tomorrow is a new day and we have to concentrate on Norwich tomorrow but tonight there is no harm at all in saying this is a special night for our club.
"I'm so proud and happy for my players and proud of everyone that has any connection with the club because it is a great night for West Ham.
"OK, it is only for the last 16 but it was a late night kick-off, it was against Liverpool, it's our last season at Upton Park, it's over 120 minutes and we scored with a great header in the last second of the game despite having injuries.
"We overcame all of that so that is why this game will go down as one of the greatest nights and games in West Ham's history."
Tuesday's tie was of stark contrast to the drab stalemate witnessed at Anfield last week, with both sides creating a host of chances in a pulsating game at the Boleyn Ground.
The Hammers took the lead against the run of play late in the first half thanks to Michail Antonio's stunning volley. Philippe Coutinho, making his first start in over a month, then hit back with a fine free-kick after the break before Ogbonna settle the tie at the death.
The result is the perfect tonic for West Ham, who had to respond to reports their star player Dimirti Payet, who set up Ogbonna for the Hammers' winner, was the subject of an audacious bid from an unnamed Chinese club.
However, Bilic was quick to reassure fans that any issue regarding Payet's future would soon be resolved.
"Dimitri Payet is our best player," he added. "I can say that because he is also working hard for the team, and the team appreciate that of course.
"It doesn't matter [about the reported offer], I think very soon we are going to sort out the situation, if there is any situation.
"He is happy, we, of course, are happy. Both parties want him to stay, the chairman loves him so there isn't anything in it."
