But that does not mean Doncaster will be travelling to Southend United with defence uppermost in their minds.

O'Driscoll said: "If we can keep a clean sheet we know we will be at least level when we start the second leg at the Keepmoat in seven days time and I'd settle for that now.

"But really any result that leaves us in with a chance in the second leg will be acceptable and we have to treat it as one long 180-minute game."

The Rovers boss said he would approach the game in much the same way as any away match.

He added: "Obviously everyone is aware of what is at stake and we know this isn't just another game.

"But the principles will be the same in that we will be out to try and take control, impose ourselves and put in a good performance.

"How we cope with the occasion is important and absolutely paramount is what we do when we are in possession of the ball."

O'Driscoll said the players had reported back after the defeat at Cheltenham with a 'back-to-business' attitude and there were no sore heads or complaints from the RSPCA following his advice to them at the end of the game.

The Doncaster boss had told them to do whatever it took to get the defeat out of their systems, whether it meant having a drink or kicking the cat!

He said: "There were no drooping shoulders or bowed heads.

"They've reported back in a determined mood with a job to do and I'm pleased with their attitude.

"We tasted our disappointment on Saturday and there seems to be a steely resolve from everyone that they are not going to let that happen again."

Centre back Steve Roberts is still ruled out with a knee injury but long term injury victims Gordon Greer, Mark Wilson and Adam Lockwood were all back in training this week.

Stuart Elliott is available again following a back injury and Paul Green is expected to be fit after tweaking his ankle in training.

O'Driscoll said there was not a lot to choose between the other three sides in the play-offs and it did not make much difference whichever they played in the semi-final - or at Wembley.

He said: "I always fancied Southend to make the play-offs.

"They are a well balanced side with a strong back four and a couple of lively strikers up front.

"They will be up for it and have the crowd behind them but our fans have been brilliant all season and we won't be short of support either."

The Doncaster boss said that it was "all or nothing" now and the team that emerged successful would be the one that rose to the occasion and coped with the pressure the best.

He added: "People say the play-offs are a lottery - and I don't disagree.

"But if that is the case we have to make sure we do everything we can to buy the winning ticket."