George Burley says his side haven't given up hope of a return to the Premiership despite their 2-1 play-off semi-final first leg defeat to Derby.

Saints took an early lead at a vibrant St Mary's through Andrew Surman and had chances throughout the match to score more.

But, without Claus Lundekvam and Darren Powell, they looked vulnerable at the back and Steve Howard took full advantage to score twice - once from a header and the other a penalty.

It gives Derby a 2-1 lead going into Tuesday night's second leg at Pride Park but Burley insists it's still all to play for.

He said: "Play-offs are like cup ties - one off situations.

"I'm pleased to be up there, because you've got to earn the right, which our team's done - and we haven't written this game off.

"You need a wee bit of luck, which wasn't there today.

"We haven't given up.

"I said before the game that nothing would be won or lost in the first leg and we showed that we can score goals against Derby, but we've got to tighten up at the back and that's an area we've got to be better."

But they may have to get through without some key players.

Lundekvam and Powell will both miss out again on Tuesday while Gareth Bale and Kenwyne Jones are major doubts after both came off injured in the second half.

Alexander Ostlund also picked up a knock and is rated as 50-50 for the game.