Steve Tilson was left shell shocked after Southend's heavy defeat to Doncaster in the play-off semi final.

The Blues chief heaped praise on Doncaster's performance and Southend's brilliant entourage of fans.

"I'm a little bit shell shocked to be honest," said Steve.

"Credit to Doncaster, they played very well tonight.

"They showed why I think they are the best footballing side in this division.

"I would love to see them now go on and get into the Championship.

"If James Walker had taken the chance early on instead of hitting the crossbar, it might have been a different game.

"But you have to take your chances when they come.

"We did well to get where we did this year, but now we have to built for next season.

"We need to work hard in pre-season and hopefully, get promotion next season.

"I'm disappointed with tonight, but now we have to regroup.

"Our support was absolutely fantastic tonight.

"For them to still get behind the team when we were 5-0 down shows what a credit they are to this club."