The Kangaroos were on track for a famous victory over premiers Kiama in the opener last weekend, when the game was halted before three-quarter time due to the tragic death of Power life member Darren Williams in the crowd.

Figtree claimed the four points as they were 26-points up at the time, but Ryan said the shocked players have taken time to regroup this week, before focusing on their next task against a young Tigers outfit. 

"Our deepest condolences go to everyone at Kiama," Ryan said. 

"We've just talked about starting our season again, obviously a game of footy was pretty insignificant on Saturday, so it's round one for us against Northern Districts.

"We've taken a lot out of admiring what Kiama and the (Wollongong) Lions do, you look at Kiama and the strength and depth they've had. We've had a lot of discussions about what we can do better."

The Kangaroos are looming as genuine contenders this year, with the inclusion of former Sydney University player Callum McFadden, talented forward Kieran Churchill and Sydney Swans NEAFL talent Hamish McDonald.

However, Northern Districts will prove a challenge after they overpowered Bomaderry in round one.

Shellharbour will meet Bomaderry after last weekend's bye, as the Kiama-Lions clash has been postponed.

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