BROMSGROVE Rovers can guarantee second place in the Midland Alliance if they overcome a difficult match at Rushall Olympic tonight (7.45).

Victory would also go a long way to ensure the Victoria Ground club's return to the Dr Martens League with leaders' Stourbridge's ground not up to standard.

Joint manager Gary Hackett however is well aware of Stratford snapping at their heels and knows they cannot afford any slip-ups.

"Stratford are still pushing us hard but if we win tonight they can't catch us so the incentive is there," he said.

"As I've said before if we take care of business our end then we will finish second. If Stourbridge win their remaining games then they will win the title and good luck to them they will have deserved it."

Rushall, who were cruelly pipped to the title by Stourport Swifts last season, remain one of the best sides in the Alliance according to Hackett.

"On paper and individually Rushall are one of the strongest sides in the division and on their day capable of beating anybody so we have to make sure we continue our good run to ensure we get the right result."

A Les Palmer goal sealed victory in Rovers' trip to Chasetown at the weekend and though the scoreline was close Hackett never felt unduly worried.

"We never looked like conceding though it was a strong display without us playing particularly flamboyant or attacking football," he added.

Rovers have injury doubts over joint player-manager Jon Ford but Morgan Brookes is standing by to play if needed.