Published Wednesday, 03 October 2012
Celtic celebrate a goal against Spartak Moscow in their Champions League clash. (© Getty)
Tuesday night's Group G clash saw the Hoops take an early lead, but then need a last-gasp goal to clinch the hard-fought victory in the Luzhniki Stadium.
"We showed great character and fortitude to come back after going a goal down just after half-time and I thought we thoroughly deserved the win," Lennon said.
Celtic opened their account with a 12th minute strike from Gary Hooper, before Emmanuel Emenike netted on both sides of the break for the hosts.
I think people underestimate Celtic - we don't get the respect we deserve, but I think the result might change a few attitudes now.
Neil Lennon
And, while a drive from substitute James Forrest deflected in off Spartak captain Dmitri Kombarov to take Celtic level, it was a Georgios Samaras header in the dying seconds that sealed it for the visitors.
"I can't speak highly enough of the players. They were magnificent. They played magnificent football at a very difficult venue against an excellent side," Lennon said.
"It's just a huge step for the club psychologically, and for the players.
"It's our first away win in the Champions League so we've broken the record now, and we're unbeaten in about seven games in Europe which is fantastic."
The gaffer isn't getting carried away though, knowing there are still difficult games ahead - including away fixtures against Barcelona and Benfica.
"There's still a lot of football to go, but we're progressing," Lennon added.
"We're playing some superb football as we go along and I'm enjoying it immensely, but it's all about the players and every one of them is a credit to the club."