Dean Cox insists Leyton Orient’s play-off semi-final win over Peterborough United is the best feeling he has experienced in football.

The O’s winger scored the opener in the 2-1 victory on Tuesday night which sparked unprecedented scenes at Brisbane Road.

Cox, who was buried in the goal celebrations, said: “It’s the best feeling I’ve had in football I’ve got to say. To see the fans down here was unbelievable. It was just an amazing feeling.

“I’ve never played in a football match where the crowd has erupted like that.

“Stupidly enough the smallest man on the pitch has decided to lie on the floor and everyone has bundled on him. I’ve got a few bumps and bruises but it was well worth it.”

Cox added: “A few of the boys were getting emotional and it was a fantastic day for the football club. It’s going to be a great day out. No one expected us to be there. I watched Sky Sports today and it was all about Peterborough. I’m sitting at home and it’s Darren Ferguson this and that. Never under-estimate little Leyton Orient.

“We’ve got great character, spirit, a fantastic manager and a team that just keep going and going.”

Cox has netted 16 goals this season but insists none throughout his career have been as important than the one on Tuesday night.

He said: “It’s the most important goal I’ve ever scored. I wouldn’t say it’s better than scoring from the halfway line against Walsall but this was the icing on the cake. If you’d told me this morning that I was going to score and be part of a team that’s just got to Wembley I would probably have laughed in your face.”

Cox was emotional after their triumph and topless after giving his match-winning shirt away to a cancer patient.

The winger said: “There was a very special woman upstairs I’d like to mention. She’s had cancer and is not very well. She came out of hospital to watch the game and asked for my shirt and it brought tears to my eyes when she told me her story. I was more than grateful to give it to her and hope it puts a smile on her face and she’s able to secure a seat at Wembley and enjoy the occasion.

“She was just a fan upstairs and asked for a photo. She was not very well and I was more than happy to give her my shirt. That puts life into perspective really but it will be a great day out for her and everyone involved. I hope everyone enjoys it.”