THE 2023 HFNL journey undertaken by the Hamilton Kangaroos has not gone to plan, but its next step will be no easier, as the Roos travel to Victoria Park to battle reigning premier, Koroit.

With no marks made in the win column after the first six rounds, the Roos currently hold up the rest of the competition on the premiership ladder, while the Saints are seventh.

It’s unfamiliar territory for Koroit, which has won the last seven senior premierships, and no doubt they will be eyeing this match as a possible percentage-boosting victory to rise above the pack on the ladder.

The Kangaroos have been slow out of the blocks in their games, but have returned to the field after the long break with renewed vigour and matched or beaten their opponents in the second half.

While the second half form has improved, the team must transfer that form to the whole four quarters if they are to make the rest of the competition sit up and take notice.

The visitors have the players to defeat the Saints with Rory Gill, Cameron Pither, Darcy Russell, Cameron Whyte, Luke Barnes and Jack Hickey able to absorb pressure at different times.

While the backline has had a mountain of work in each game to date, the forwards must now take advantage of the ball being delivered to them and not allow turnovers to occur.

The forward line should be strengthened with the return of another tall in Hamish Cook, who is expected to return to the team after missing through injury.

HAMILTON KANGAROOS face a stern test today, as it travels south to do battle with Hampden Football Netball League (HFNL) powerhouse, Koroit, in a game that will give the squad an indication of where it is in terms of its finals aspirations.

After losing to reigning premier, South Warrnambool, in round five, the Roos regained their composure with a round six win against Warrnambool.

The home side suffered a major blow at the opening centre pass when goal attack, Hayley Sherlock, injured her calf and was subbed out of the game, but Clare Crawford stepped up into the position and along with defender, Ella Sevior, was the best on court.

Phillips will not play today, but Sherlock is expected to take her place on the court in a huge plus for the Kangaroos, as they tackle one of the best teams in the competition.

Along with her co-coach (and sister) Kellie, Emma Sommerville has had the squad preparing for any eventuality with different combinations across the squad not just for this week but all through the season to date.

“Clare (Crawford) played GA in round one, so we do have some different combinations across our team should the need eventuate,” Sommerville said.

The Saints finished third last season after falling at the penultimate hurdle against Cobden, and they pose a huge threat to the Kangaroos’ top three hopes this year.

Along with South Warrnambool and Cobden, Koroit appear to be the biggest impediments for the Roos this season and with a loss to the Roosters and draw against the Bombers, a victory against the Saints will make the double chance prospect more likely.