Barrett: Believe in the Blues

11:08am Monday 12th May 2008

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SOUTHEND United skipper Adam Barrett insists his side still have every chance of reaching the final of the League One play-offs.

The Shrimpers were held to a 0-0 draw by Doncaster Rovers in the first leg of the semi-final at Roots Hall on Friday.

But Barrett is sure Blues have what it takes to win the second clash between the teams at the Keepmoat Stadium.

"We can definitely go there on Friday and win," the centre back told the Echo.

"Our away form has been really good just lately and we've won at places like Carlisle so I can't see any reason why we can't win at Doncaster.

"The most important thing after the first leg in a tie like this is to still be in the match and that's certainly the case.

"It's all definitely still to play for and we all have to believe we can do it."

Blues created few clear cut chances in a tense and tight clash against a Rovers side who had striker Paul Heffernan sent off late on for violent conduct.

But before his dismissal the visitors wasted the best opportunity of the match when Jason Price was unable to convert a one-on-one against Darryl Flahavan That boosted Blues and Barrett now wants to take full advantage.

"Flavs did well for us but it was the type of game I think most people would have been expecting," said the captain.

"It was quite nervy but I thought we played some good stuff, especially in the first half.

"After the break we didn't hold the ball up well enough and that gave Doncaster more of the ball.

"That made it more difficult but overall we did OK and it's set it up nicely for the second leg."

Southend manager Steve Tilson has already turned his attentions to the return fixture.

And he is expecting an exciting encounter.

"It's all to play for," said the 41-year-old.

"We know what we have got to do. It's a one-off game and our away record is good of late.

"We know it's going to be tough up there but we are still in the tie.

"I think they feel they have already done the job so hopefully we can go up there, turn them over and make it through."

The game will have to be settled on the night and Tilson is hoping that the club's fans will make the journey in big numbers.

"Hopefully they will come and get right behind us again," he said.

"The support was fantastic on Friday and more of the same this time would be brilliant."