THE Hamilton Kangaroos travelled down to Friendly Societies Park to take on ladder leader, South Warrnambool, in a big Open netball test for the visitors.

The Kangaroos stuck with the red and white for much of the contest, before falling 10 goals short of victory at the final whistle.

The opening quarter was an arm wrestle, with neither team able to edge clear on the scoreboard.

Both teams transitioned into attack efficiently with the home side going into the first break with a one-goal advantage.

The lead grew to four goals by the half time break, before the Roosters went on to claim a 45-36 victory.

Kelsey Lewis put up 20 goals for the blue and white, while Hayley Sherlock added 13 in support.

Clare Crawford was named the Kangaroos’ best on court, ahead of Emma Sommerville and Rhianne Lewis.

Former Kangaroo, Hollie Phillips, was the standout for the home side, shooting a game-high 36 goals to be named the Roosters’ best player.

Kangaroos coach, Nat O’Dea said it was a great test for the team and was impressed with their performance.

“The game was a terrific contest, both teams have some very fit, talented and smart netballers,” she said.

“It was a fantastic game to watch.

“The game was intense with a huge amount of defensive pressure from both teams.

“A few little errors cost us the win, but take nothing away from South, they are a quality side.”

The round six clash was the first time the entire Open squad was available for the team, giving O’Dea confidence the team could match it with the best teams.

“It proves we have have what it takes to match it with the league’s best sides,” she said.

“(It is) a huge boost in confidence for the club, team, Tracy (Barnes) and myself.

“We knew this Open side is super strong and with each week - games they play together – Saturday’s game proved we can match it with the league’s best.”

The team’s chemistry is also growing each week and providing positive signs for the group.

O’Dea said with more games together, the rate of improvement will continue to flourish.

“I knew I had a talented side, but we just took a little bit to come together,” she said.

“I couldn't have been happier with the way the girls played and really am excited for what is another huge test on Saturday against another high-quality side in Cobden.”