After blowing their big chance of nailing second spot and automatic promotion to football's second tier for the first time in 50 years, the journey back north was a sombre one for everyone connected with the club. Not least the players.

But after a wretched weekend, Rovers have dusted themselves down and found some stoic determination for the play-off white-knuckle ride.

Boss Sean O'Driscoll told his players to get the defeat out of their systems in whatever way necessary – whether that be by going out for a drink or "kicking the cat" – and experienced striker Gareth Taylor, for one, is of the view that it is no good crying over split milk.

The former Sheffield United and Burnley front man – who has tasted both the highs and lows of the play-off wheel of fortune – insists others would give their right arm to be in Rovers' position.

Not least Taylor's former club Tranmere, who have narrowly missed out on the end-of-season bonanza for the second year in succession, with out-of-contract boss Ronnie Moore left to sweat on his future.

And it's safe to say that back in the autumn, Rovers supporters would have gladly settled for a play-off berth, given their slipshod opening to the campaign which saw their heroes win just three times in the opening 10 matches, with many calling for the head of O'Driscoll.

Taylor, who headed to Rovers – his 12th club – from the Wirral in January, said: "I know a lot of teams and lads I have played with or against would really like to be in our position.

"My old team, Tranmere, would give their right arm to be in the play-offs. I know Ronnie Moore certainly would.

"The play-offs are still a terrific achievement, no matter whether you are a team expected to go up or whatever. You get to the play-offs and you've given yourself a hell of a chance."

Rovers will only achieve closure from their Whaddon Road loss if they clinch promotion at Wembley, where Taylor enjoyed one of the highlights of his career back in 1999 when Manchester City held their nerve to sink Gillingham in a never-to-be forgotten League One play-off final victory on penalties.

Taylor has copped lows in the home of football as well – and knows which feeling he prefers.

He said: "I've had three finals and have lost two and won one.

"In the final with Sheffield United, I lost to Palace, while in the one with Manchester City, we beat Gillingham. At the start of my career, I also played for Bristol Rovers and we lost to Huddersfield in the final.

"It's the best place in the world to win, but I know from past experience, it's also the worst place to lose. It really is – losing to Cheltenham on Saturday would be nothing compared to losing in the play-offs there.