The Roos kicked 3.4 to nothing in the second quarter to set up a 7.6 (48) to 4.5 (29) win and jump into top spot courtesy of a 418.50 percentage.

Launceston assistant coach Angela Dickson said Clarence had outjumped her side from the start and been harder at the contest. 

“They outplayed us today,” Dickson said.

“They wanted the ball more than we did, they were harder at the ball than we were and that’s what won them the game.

“It’s our first loss but we’re not panicking at all, we know what we’ve got to work on.

“It’s a good opportunity for the girls to learn from today and take it back so next time we face them we’re ready and prepared.”

The Blues cut the 19-point half-time margin to a retrievable two-goal gap at the final change but Natalie Pearce (three goals) and the midfield prowess of Nicole Bresnehan and Bronte Scott saw Clarence over the line.

Key position player Ashlee Carey was best on ground for the Blues, and was well supported by defensive partners Chanette Thuringer and Hayley Whyte.

Courtney Stanley, Dearne Taylor, Amy Halaby and Danika Corcoran kicked a goal each.  

“(Carey) was best on - our backline considering they had it in there for the majority of the game were fantastic.

“We put the pressure on them a bit this week and told them they needed to stand up and they did, they were amazing and they really showed what a strong unit they are.”

Despite dropping into second spot the Blues will have the chance to slot straight back into first next weekend when they host a winless Burnie at Windsor Park.

Clarence has the bye.