THE Hamilton Kangaroos have claimed their first Open win of the 2021 Hampden Football Netball League season, edging out Warrnambool by eight goals at Deakin University on Saturday.

The Kangaroos were coming off a gallant loss against Seagulls in round one, but coach, Kelsey Lewis, changed combinations for round two with Hollie Phillips starring in goals for the blue and white, putting up 25 goals alongside Hayley Sherlock.

It was a positive start to the clash for the visitors, as they settled into a rhythm and grabbed an early lead.

The Blues’ midcourt did their best to transition into attack, but the Kangaroos held firm to take a 13-9 lead into quarter time.

The dominance continued after the first break with the Kangaroos extending their scoreboard advantage out to seven goals by the main break.

Hamilton’s third term was its worst, scoring just seven goals, as the Blues closed the gap to seven at the final break to give the home side a sniff of victory.

The visitors controlled the tempo and maintained possession when required, as the Kangaroos went on to record a 43-35 win.

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