Kevin Deery celebrates his first Derry goal at Fir Park

"We started very nervously so to come out 5-1 winners is tremendous," said the Derry City manager.

"At half-time I said to the players that we had so much more to give.

"I said that if we played with a higher tempo, we would definitely go on to win the game. The quality of the goals was absolutely sensational."

Interview: Derry City boss Stephen Kenny

Kevin Deery and Ciaran Martyn both hit two goals apiece and the Derry boss was delighted with the contributions of the midfield duo.

"Kevin is a great player for me and that's 11 goals from Ciaran Martyn from midfield this year and he was a month out as well.

"We scored tremendous goals and there were tremendous performances all round tonight. Darren Kelly, Gary Beckett...I'm just thrilled with all of them."

The club has shown its potential in bringing 3,000 passionate supporters here tonight Derry City manager Stephen Kenny

Kenny is known for his caution but even he acknowledged that Derry are now on their way to the first round proper of the Uefa Cup after Thursday's Firhill romp.

"We have a 100 per cent record at the Brandywell and we've beaten Gothenburg as well.

"I think we will progress although we won't take anything for granted."

Kenny seemed almost emotional when he was asked about the presence of the 3,000 plus Derry fans who travelled to Motherwell's Fir Park where the game was played.

"They are like that even when we lose. I've never been with a club that the fans clap you off when you lose. It's unique in itself.

"The club has shown its potential in bringing 3,000 passionate supporters here tonight."