Brendan Rodgers has declared his pride following Liverpool's 3-1 victory over Zenit St Petersburg, despite going out of the Europa League on away goals.
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The Merseysiders went into Thursday's tie at Anfield having to overturn a 2-0 deficit following defeat in Russia a week ago.
A Luis Suarez hat-trick and a first club goal for Joe Allen were not enough for the Reds to secure progression in the competition after Hulk had put the visitors ahead in the first half.
But the former Swansea boss felt nothing but pride for his team's valiant effort at a second leg comeback, ruing only his side's first leg performance as the reason for their elimination.
"I am very proud of the club and the players even though we lost the tie," Rodgers said.
"The club and players showed why we are part of the world's greatest football family. The atmosphere and what they put in to come back from a three-goal deficit and put in that effort was a phenomenal show.
"I thought we should have had a penalty too. The crowd and players couldn't do more. It was a fantastic night but we probably lost the tie over in Russia. To have to score that many goals and nearly do it gives me so much pride."
Rodgers was also quick to defend Jamie Carragher after the Liverpool veteran's mistake allowed former Porto striker Hulk to open the scoring.
"There is no blame on Carra. That is the first mistake I think I have seen him make since I arrived at the club and that includes training. I thought he was brilliant tonight in how he controlled Hulk.
"It was just one of those unfortunate things but I am disappointed for him because he's a brilliant professional and he deserved to go through."
Rodgers added that his club's season is far from over, and is keen to press on heading to season's end after being encouraged by his side's performance.
"Our season was never going to finish until the final whistle against QPR (in May)," he added.
"This group is growing all the time and the performance to dominate a team of this ilk was incredible. We just have to continue going forward as we have from the turn of the year. You can see the players' hunger and determination to do that."
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