Chris Hughton expressed his delight after Birmingham moved to the brink of a play-off spot after securing a draw at Gus Poyet's Brighton.
Poyet hopes to keep Vicente beyond the end of the season
Chris Hughton expressed his delight after Birmingham moved to the brink of a Championship play-off spot after securing a draw at Gus Poyet's Brighton.
The Blues looked to be heading towards victory at the Amex when substitute Nathan Redmond fired them into a 69th minute lead, but Brighton levelled six minutes from time through Ashley Barnes.
It was Birmingham's fourth successive draw at Brighton, but Hughton was not complaining after the final whistle.
He said: "I am delighted for this group of players. I've had great support and I am happy for all of them.
"It was a tough summer, but it doesn't matter as long as we are in the play-offs. Getting there is the main thing, although a second leg at home would be nice."
Challenge
Brighton manager Poyet expressed optimism over keeping Spanish playmaker Vicente Rodriguez after Barnes' late goal rescued a point for the Seagulls.
Poyet's men missed out on a play-off place due to a dip in form which has seen them take only four points from their last seven games.
But Poyet believes their challenge next season will be significantly boosted with the return of the former Valencia star and is hopeful he can hang on to the 30-year-old.
Poyet said: "It won't be difficult to keep him (Vicente) as long as we get a team he deserves. He is a joy to watch.
"There is a big opportunity and we will decide on it together. We'll follow my line and the way I like to treat players."
Despite missing out on a play-off position, Poyet felt his objectives for the season had still been realised, as he said: "I'm proud of what we've done."
