Robbie Neilson admits he is 'very proud' of his Hearts players after their Hampden display against Rangers.
The Jambos were undone in extra-time after Ryan Jack's stunner and Scott Wright low drive handed Giovanni van Bronckhorst's men victory at the national stadium.
It's been a stunning season for the Tynecastle side who finished third in the Premiership and will play guaranteed European group stage football next season.
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Neilson couldn't fault his troops for their efforts against Rangers as he reserved special praise for the 22,000 Hearts fans.
Speaking to Premier Sports, he said: "We are very disappointed not to win it.
"When you come to a final you want to do that but I am very proud of the players' performance to be honest with you.
"In the first 90 minutes we were outstanding at times. We blocked things off and you know that you are coming here to face a very good Rangers team.
"They went to the Europa League final. We created chances but today was won and lost on that strength of squad.
"You look at the changes that Rangers can make. They can bring on international players and bring on guys who are worth £5-10million.
"We need to try and get a level - we are not going to match that - but get players who are going to come and do that.
"Like I say I couldn't fault any of the players.
"The fan base came through today - 22,000 of them - and they were absolutely outstanding.
"They saw the effort the players gave and they just couldn't take that final step."
