It was like a greenhouse in a glass fronted box built to cater for 10 people but which had 17 cramped in there. It was so hot and humid that we could have grown tomatoes in there!

My headphone equipment was about three feet away from me and with the lead only being two foot long my head was on the shoulder of the person sat next to me and every time people moved it tugged my wire which was round my neck.

But back to the game. I thought that it was a thoroughly professional performance. Had we had a bit more luck in front of the goal then we would have taken a slender lead back to the Keepmoat.

It was a pity about Heffs (Paul Heffernan) being showed the red card. But you've got to ask why did their player run 20 yards to confront him?

Southend had given their fans free flags which was quite impressive and I believe Rovers are doing the same tonight.

The Shrimpers chairman is funding free coaches from Southend today, so there should be a cracking atmosphere.

The Rovers fans were excellent in their support of the team at Roots Hall, and with a trip to Wembley being just 90 minutes away, it should be the same tonight.

One last recollection from Southend. I walking back to the car after the game with the Free Press sports writer Peter Catt, when a drunken Essex girl confronted us wanting to buy my Rovers shirt off me - she even offering me £20.

She would not take no for an answer and with me being a big softie I whipped my shirt off. She then came out with 'I've only got a tenner' so I ended up giving her the shirt.

If we are victorious tonight the Supporters' Club will be selling coach tickets for Wembley, £25 adults and OAPs and £23 for under-16s from tables near the ticket office.

We will be there during normal ticket office opening hours, also from 6-10pm at the Park Hotel Carr House Road, with a cut off point of Thursday night, cash and cheques with a valid card only.

No phone bookings please. We aim to leave the Keepmoat at 8.30 am prompt. For further information I can be contacted on 077404-53066.

n The Retford Branch Supporters' Club dinner and dance is now on Friday May 30 at the Elms Hotel in Retford - the date having been changed due to the play-offs.

The price of £18 includes free transport to and from Doncaster and surrounding villages. You can get tickets from the Park Hotel next week, or call me on the above number.

What do you think? Post your comments below.

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