Southend United 0 Doncaster Rovers 0

[Beefy]

Paul Hefferman's late red card spoiled Doncaster's trip to Roots Hall after they held Southend in the first leg of their League One play-off semi-final.

Southend had the better of the first half, with Lee Barnard impressing up front and Simon Francis going close.

Rovers' Simon Mills had a fine chance but misjudged a close-range header.

Jason Price had several opportunities for the visitors after the break before Hefferman was deservedly sent off for a mindless headbutt on Paul Clarke.

Hefferman lost his temper after an innocuous tangle with the centre-back with just three minutes left, and attempted a headbutt in full view of the watching referee.