Nick Pope admits that Newcastle United did not forsee Southampton forcing their way back into the contest in the League Cup semi-finals after a flying start at St James' Park.
Sean Longstaff's double strike put Newcastle in full control with the Saints left reeling after 21 minutes at 2-0 down. However, Che Adams' strike made for an uneasy last hour of the tie.
Yet after reaching the League Cup final, Pope said: "We're just over the moon to get over the line. "It wasn't how we planned it at 2-0 up but it just shows you what character and resilience we have to come through those difficult moments.
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The drama on the night intensified when Bruno Guimaraes was sent off with the star leaving the field in tears, fearing he was suspended for the final. But that did not prove to be the case and after putting his body on the line he was given support in the dressing room afterwards.
Pope added: "From his point of view, I think he was just disappointed to leave the pitch in a big game. Bruno is somebody who gives everything.
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"It is something he will learn from. "He is still very much loved in the dressing room and in the city. We will get behind him I am sure."
Newcastle fans were left emotionally drained after the 3-1 aggregate win over the Saints and Pope says it is not lost on the players what reaching a final really means to supporters.
The goalkeeper said: "We have a few Geordies in the squad so it doesn't go unnoticed. This is more than a football club this place. You are representing the city and it is something we have took on really well. It is something I am proud to be part of."
For Pope it is his first major final with only a play-off defeat with York City in his early days to show for his efforts on his CV.
Pope said: "My experience of finals is zilch. I lost a play-off semi-final with York. Not much else is in there. I have had a couple of abysmal cup runs so looking forward to this one."
Pope was finally beaten after 15 and a half hours of not conceding a goal between the posts for Newcastle. Che Adams' goal dented his recent record but he was philosophical about the situation.
The Toon stopper reflected: "I am not going to go untested in a two legged affair. "Southampton are a very good team with a good manager. They have become tough to beat so you have to be ready and on your toes.
"It was a shame but massive credit. Damn Che Adams that was a great strike, it went into the corner. The run was unbelievable (not conceding) but you are very level headed, it's not going to last forever, we are just pleased to have got what we did."
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