Coyle watched his side push Celtic hard at Hampden

"We certainly didn't deserve to lose on the day," Coyle told BBC Sport. "It's hard to take.

"I'm pleased we pushed the SPL leaders all the way but the bottom line is that we're out of the cup.

"I can't ask for any more than the players gave. I'm gutted for them. It's not often Celtic fans are calling for the final whistle like that."

Interview: St Johnstone manager Owen Coyle

Celtic's opening goal came from a contentious penalty won and converted by Jan Venneggor of Hesselink.

And St Johnstone manager Owen Coyle was not convinced by the award.

"At the time I thought it was soft," he said. "It could have been given, but equally I've seen them not given."

Saints had a good chance to go in front just before the opening goal when striker Jason Scotland found space on the left and was allowed a clear run towards the penalty area.

"He missed and they went up the park and got a penalty from it and scored," added Coyle.

"That shows you, when you're playing these real quality teams you have to concentrate, and goals change games.

"But credit to my players for their response, and their attitude and desire to get back into the game against the SPL champions - they're a First Division side, you've got to remember.

"I thought the spirit they showed was second to none.

"To go 1-0 down against the champions it would be very easy to buckle, but nothing could be further from the truth.

"We came back and then some, and took the game on and looked to try to win."