The Roos trailed by five or less goals at the three changes before going down 52-45 in front of a strong crowd.

The side trained for the first time on the court on Thursday night.

Coach Georgie Bruce said it was disappointing to lose after pushing North Albury and Lavington in the opening two rounds.

“It was a good game,” Bruce said.

“It would be nice to come away with the four points, but it was hard fought and nobody gave up

“We pushed North Albury to 10 goals and Lavington to 16 so we are getting closer.

“We just need to cut out a few mistakes.”

Steph Clancy was outstanding in defence for Corowa-Rutherglen while Kiara McLean ran out the game well in the centre.

Albury’s Olivia Aughton led her side well with support coming from Gabe McRae.

While Corowa-Rurtherglen didn’t win the A-grade, it officially won the first match on the court with its under-16s starting the day on a high note by defeating Albury 51-36.

“The girls did really well earlier in the day,” Bruce said.

“The court came up really well.

“It’s different having the colouring in the court and it will be good for the players’ peripheral vision.”

Meanwhile, North Albury has bounced back from a last-round loss to topple Myrtleford.

After a close first term, the Hoppers pushed away to record a 51-26 win.

Grace Senior posted 35 goals, while Kirby Hilton was outstanding in the mid-court.

“We wanted to create turnovers and we did it time and time again,” North coach Fiona Boyer said.

“We’ll work harder on trying to keep possession of the ball, but we did work hard at creating turnovers, so that was good.”

Boyer was delighted with the team performance, but had special praise for Hilton.

“Kirby created a number of opportunities, she’s strong in attack and defence,” Boyer said.

“I think she’s also settling for our attack when we do get turnovers.”

North fell to Yarrawonga, which remains undefeated.

The Pigeons breezed past Wangaratta Rovers 48-21 in Sunday’s other game at Mulwala.

Abbey Jones, who led the way in attack, and young talent Gemma O’Sullivan were best for the home side in the comprehensive victory.

Yarrawonga coach Bridget Cassar has been very pleased with the start to the season.

“Our defenders were fantastic and we’ve got a bit of a new look in attack, so it’s just a matter of them getting used to each other,” Cassar said.

“Our defenders just kept turning the ball over and sending it down, which allowed us extra shots at goal.

“We’ve got five new girls in our side, so it’s up to us try and lead from the front and lead by example to hopefully rub off on those young girls.

“We’re aiming to finish in finals,” Cassar added.