Smith on "fantastic" win
by Richard Field, 01 May 2008
Rangers boss Walter Smith praised his side's defending following the dramatic penalty shoot-out win against Fiorentina in their Uefa Cup semi final, second leg.
The teams could not be separated after 120 minutes in Florence and Rangers backs were up against the wall following the dismissal of Daniel Cousin in the 65th minute.
The quadruple dream was kept alive with Nacho Novo slotting home his spot-kick after Christian Vieri had previously missed for the Florentine club.
“It takes a bit of beating that one. The team were fantastic tonight ,” Smith said.
“It was extremely emotional and it is the third time this season that we’ve managed to get to the final.
“We were hanging on, credit to Fiorentina they put us under a great deal of pressure and I couldn’t ask anymore of our boys - they defended brilliantly.
“It is fantastic from our point of view, and for a first year team they have managed to get to a final of a major European competition.”
Novo proved to be the hero in the penalty ordeal with the Spaniard in a state of shock following the final whistle.
“I still can’t believe it, but what a performance from the team and it is great for the fans who deserve it.”
Rangers will now face Zenit St Petersburg managed by former Gers boss Dick Advocaat in the final at the City of Manchester Stadium.