Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl says he will never forget beating Portsmouth as the Premier League side beat their local rivals 4-0 to reach the last 16 of the Carabao Cup.
Danny Ings scored twice while there were also goals for Cedric Soares and Nathan Redmond.
This was the first south coast derby in seven years and Southampton’s first win at Fratton Park since 1984.
“This is more than only reaching the next round,” said Hasenhuttl.
“This is about reaching the hearts of the fans. I am very happy for them.
“I knew it was massive game for them and I think we really didn’t start well in this game, but the players knew they had to fight for every inch.”
The hosts were ultimately well beaten, but were unlucky not to have taken the lead after a high-tempo start.
John Marquis powered a shot just wide of the post for Portsmouth early on before Alex McCarthy tipped over Brett Pitman’s effort fierce drive.
However, Ings’ first-half double knocked their enthusiasm and they barely troubled their regional rivals in a second half the visitors completely dominated.
“I have never had such an atmosphere in a stadium so far,” added Hasenhuttl.
“I was hoping it is coming in a way that you can also celebrate the football and if you see such a game here then you know why football is so popular in England.”
The win will have been a welcome boost for Hasenhuttl after the Saints lost 3-1 at home to Bournemouth in the Premier League last Friday.
Portsmouth, meanwhile, switch focus back to trying to find their form in League One, Kenny Jackett’s side without a league win since 10 August.
“We had a lot of pressure, a lot of chances, opportunities, one on ones and set pieces but we didn’t take them,” said Jackett.
“We went two up front and tried to bring the crowd into play and they were fantastic.
“As a manager, I didn’t want to come away not having a go tonight, and just shutting up shop.”
