Doncaster's Paul Heffernan was sent off for violent conduct in his side's 0-0 draw with Southend United in the first leg of their League One play-off semi-final.

The striker became embroiled in a petty exchange in the closing minutes and inexplicably headbutted Peter Clarke, ruling himself out of the second leg next Friday.

It was a sour end to a sweet night at Roots Hall for Donny, who outplayed the home side for long periods and spurned several chances to take a priceless lead in the tie.

The visitors' best opening came on the hour and fell to Jason Price, who collected a neat pass from Brian Stock to find himself clean through on the goal. His first touch was good, but his left-foot finish lacked power and was blocked by the legs of Southend's goalkeeper Darryl Flahavan.

Soon after the midfielder almost made spectacular amends, cushioning a long ball forward on his chest and swivelling to volley a shot goalwards for 25 yards. But once again Flahavan was equal to his effort.

Southend were not without their chances, most of which came during the opening period. Matthew Mills met Lewis Guy's left-wing free-kick on the half-hour mark, but his glancing header was just wide.

Their best chance came on the verge of half-time and fell to right-back Simon Francis, who timed his run to perfection to meet Mark Gower's cross and made an excellent connection on the half-volley. Donny's veteran keeper Neil Sullivan was in position to make the save, however, and the home side would not come as close again.

Southend were under pressure for much of a one-sided second period, and will consider themselves fortunate to be level in the tie going into the second leg.

In the minutes following Hefferman's moment of madness, however, the home side threatened an unlikely win, but Lee Barnard fired wide.

Will Tidey / Eurosport