Grant McCann expressed deep pride after League Two Doncaster defeated Hull 5-4 on penalties in the third round of the Emirates FA Cup.
With the score 1-1 following extra-time, Harry Clifton converted the winning spot-kick after Mason Burstow and Alfie Jones missed for the Championship outfit.
Earlier, Luke Molyneux had given Doncaster the lead after 51 minutes but Hull equalised in the 80th minute when Gustavo Puerto followed up Burstow’s low hit that struck the base of the left post.
Former Hull manager McCann said: “We had to be strong defensively because they are an improving team with really good players.
“We had to be structured out of possession – and we did that.
“I’m pleased for the players and the effort they put in. I’m pleased for the fans, and I’m pleased for the football club. Financially, it’s tremendously important.
“There were some really strong performances. I’m proud to be sitting here to say how strong we were defensively.”
McCann added: “The boys showed a level head when it went into penalties.
“I’m just pleased in my team and the commitment they showed.
“If we can show that level of discipline and aggression in our division we will score from a lot of chances.
“It gives us a benchmark and gives us something to build on.”
Doncaster charged into a 51st-minute lead when Molyneux smartly cashed in upon a brisk counterattack before Puerto equalised.
Joe Ironside missed Rovers’ first penalty of the shootout, but Burstow later skied one over the crossbar.
Ted Sharman-Lowe then brilliantly saved Jones’ spot-kick before Clifton scored the winner.
Hull head coach Ruben Selles felt Sharman-Lowe could have been sent off in normal time after he was only shown a yellow card for a foul on Abu Kamara.
He said: “I don’t know the interpretation of that rule, but I think that situation (decision) was key.
“These games are always difficult. The opposition had two shots on target all game. It wasn’t our best performance, but we did enough to win the game.
“The situation with their goal, we need to defend much better as a team. And when we are 4-3 in penalties, we need to finish the game.
“It’s all about how much we can go again and how much we can show character.”
Selles added: “We are very close to signing a winger in the next 24 hours and hopefully we will get another one before the Millwall game.
“We know that we need some support, especially in the defensive situations, but we are not going to take it as being the end of the world.”
