Southend manager Steve Tilson feels that his side are underdogs to reach the final of the League One play-offs.

Blues start their quest for a place in May's showpiece final at Wembley Stadium this evening when Doncaster Rovers visit Roots Hall.

And Tilson believes that their South Yorkshire opponents are ahead of Blues, along with Leeds and Carlisle, to win through to the final.

"We're definitely the underdogs and every pundit I've heard talking about the play-offs has written us off which is fine by me," said Tilson who previously guided United to play-off honours in League Two.

"I understand where they are coming from because we sneaked it towards the end of the season, while Doncaster were up there all year so they are the favourites.

"In my mind they are also the best footballing side in the division so we know the size of the task that's facing us but we will be giving it a right go."

Tilson will once again find himself back in the dugout having completed a two match touchline ban.

The 41-year-old was forced to watch on from the stands against Tranmere Rovers and Port Vale after an FA charge.

"You do get a better view up there but I don't like having to sit in the stand," said Steve.

"I've never been a real ranter but it means I can get my point across if I need to and that's obviously a good thing."

Tilson being on the sidelines will also hopefully help keep his players calm.

"The biggest fear is that the players get too nervous and end up freezing," he said.

"That's what you don't want to happen and we will be doing everything we can to keep the players relaxed.

"They have been superb in getting us into the play-offs and just need to keep on going the same way."