Despite a disappointing loss against the Saints, it's not all doom and gloom for the Kangaroos with several players knocking on the door for promotion following a big win to VFL affiliate North Ballarat.

The Roosters made the most of their attacking advantage with the big bodies of Aaron Edwards and Josh Smith up forward, smashing Frankston by 86 points in the final practice match before round one.

Edwards finished the match with 20 possessions and ten marks, while Smith kicked three goals and laid seven tackles.

"Josh has been working hard on his defensive pressure and it was a much improved effort from him in that area today." North Melbourne development coach John Lamont told kangaroos.com.au.

Experienced heads came to the fore for the Roosters with Scott McMahon and Leigh Harding both impressing after being left out of the AFL squad.

"It was fantastic the way they were able to come back after being omitted with such a great attitude and to perform the way they did."

Harding relished more time in the midfield picking up 30 possessions and booting two goals, while McMahon looked comfortable in defence and had 20 disposals.

Ben Cunnington continues to edge closer to his debut after gaining more valuable match time playing mainly through the middle with some stints in defence.

"It was another positive step forward for Ben. He showed plenty of poise and composure with the ball and competed exceptionally well. He ended up with 25 touches." Lamont added.

After toiling away in the VFL reserves for much of 2009, Warren Benjamin showed plenty to suggest he could be in line for more time in the seniors with 25 possessions across half-back and rotating into the midfield.

Also encouraging was the form of Cruize Garlett. Returning from a wrist injury the 2009 debutant didn't take a backward step on the way to 30 possessions, his clean ball handling a standout in the windy conditions.

Youngsters Brayden Norris (18 possessions, two goals) and Marcus White (20 possessions) were also valuable contributors, while Aaron Black (14 possessions) was dangerous up forward.

"It's really encouraging to see the young guys having an impact so early. There's no reason Aaron couldn't be pushing for a senior spot later in the year if he continues to improve at this level."

North Ballarat 17.20 (122) def Frankston 5.6 (36)