DAVE Benton is out of Bromsgrove Rovers derby clash with rivals Stourport Swifts at the Victoria Ground tonight (7.45).

The defender limped off with a hamstring injury in the 5-1 win at Rugby United on Saturday.

Steve Frost, who replaced him, is set to start alongside Steve Pope in the heart of the Rovers' defence.

Bromsgrove are up to sixth in the Dr Martens Western Division but Rooney is expecting a difficult ride at the hands of Dave Titterton's side.

"Dave's teams are always competitive, he gets them going and they are a side that never gives up," said Rooney.

"You have to play them for 90 minutes because they are fit and work extremely hard."

Ex-Wolves youngster Ryan Mahon will be given another chance to shine in the Rovers' midfield and Rooney is delighted with his impact.

"Ryan's only played two games but he gets through a mountain of work in a quiet and efficient manner," said Rooney.

"He's not a player that stands out straight away but he's got a great competitive edge to his game and he must have been unlucky to be released by Wolves.

"Players around him appreciate him but from a spectator's point of view he's a player that will grow on them."

Swifts boss Dave Titterton has injury worries of his own including doubts over in-form striker Robbie Taylor (groin) and James Wood (hamstring).

Taylor's absence would be a real blow to Stourport after his recent haul of four goals in his last three games.

If he fails to play Andy Wright stands by to start in his place alongside Richard Ball as Swifts bid to chalk up their fourth league win of the season.