The Hammers bounced back from three successive defeats to register their first points on the board as goals from Pedro Obiang and Andre Ayew proved the difference at London Stadium.
And Bilic, whose job was thought to be on the line after the Londoners’ woeful start to the Premier League season, was full of praise for his charges after the game, while also being able to personally breathe a sigh of relief.
"I am happy for the lads, I am happy for the whole club," Bilic told Sky Sports. "It was very important for us.
"We started with three away games, three defeats. It was a must-win game. I was pleased with the way we played. Even if we didn't win the game I could say nothing to the lads, they gave everything.
"We played good. It wasn't a nice performance but it was a top performance in all other stuff, in the second balls, in determination, in closing them down, in getting the corners and free-kicks and all that. We totally deserved it.
"I've felt the pressure for a whole year now, it didn't start today. Although for me it's not logical to be under pressure after three games only but it is modern football and of course I have felt the pressure.
"But we kept the calmness, we changed a little bit the shape of the team and we said to the guys that you're going to go back to basics."