Tigers and Vikings warm up for 2026

The Tigers travelled to Kianawah Road for the first time in a few years to take on the Wynnum Vikings at home in their final practice match for 2026.

The Vikings had played one season in Division 1 in 2022 before returning to Division 2 the following year and they are doing their best to rebuild to be a force in that grade. The Tigers were very grateful for the Vikings to host this game which was played out over six terms. The Seniors played the first four with the Reserves the final two.

The Tigers fielded another hybrid team with a lot of new players and some of the best Reserves getting an opportunity to show their credentials.

In a very quick start the Tigers were able to storm away with a ten goal first term highlighting the difference between Division 1 and Division 2 but the Vikings gave it everything but broke down across the half back line.

The Tigers Jasper Craven and Jack Collings controlled the middle along with Duncan McCabe who all got plenty of the ball to give ample supply to the forward line.

Up front, the usual suspects were very mobile providing a plethora of leads and movement for the ball carriers coming in.

Ryan Doolan was not well for the last game against Kedron but was fit and firing yesterday as he marked everything and finished off well. He finished with six goals but shared the ball around regularly with one of his best mates Rhys Syrett getting on the end of a couple of those movements. He finished with two goals and should be pleased with his day.

Zac Quin was very busy kicking four goals as well as doing his best to bring others into the game as did Harry McInnes who looks like a very handy recruit if he decides to stay in Brisbane. McInnes kicked four and was a real handful for the Vikings defence as dominated the area.

Nick Galvin was very solid as usual as a mid sized forward taking one particularly big mark and finishing off with a perfect goal in the windy conditions.

Xavier Craven was also creative around the forward line with his handball work a real feature.

The Tigers debuted Ben Beuhler in the ruck and he made the most of his chances with a strong performance to show he will be a very handy back up for the big man’s department. He has a fearsome aspect to his tackling and defensive work and is sure to be a fan favourite with his long flowing locks.

The Tigers defence looks to have lost none of their organisation as they held out the determined Vikings all day.

James Stolz was very clean while Kyle Henry was as usual very decisive with his spoiling, marking and kicking. Zac Puncken moved to the half back line to provide an attacking option and he performed just as expected cutting off plenty of attacking moves and turning them into attack every time.

Chas Van Leeuwin and Pat Glass got their chances in the senior group and also performed well showing their experience and value should the need arise at the highest level.

The Tigers kicked away to a solid win with the major objective of the day ticked off. A good hit out and no injuries was the keynote of the day.

Once again a big thanks to the Vikings for hosting the day and for their good spirited play. We wish them well for their season ahead.

The Tigers will now look forward to playing their round one match against their grand Finals rivals the Springwood Pumas at the Den on 11th April commencing at 2.00pm.

Scores: Mayne 21.17.143 d Wynnum 2.2.14

Goals:  R Doolan 6, Z Quin, H McInnes 4, J Craven, R Syrett 2, C Burger, C Van Leeuwen, N Galvin 1.

Best: Jasper Craven, Duncan McCabe, Zac Puncken, Ryan Doolan, Zac Quin, Jack Collings.

For all enquiries regarding playing for the Tigers in 2026, please email to president@maynetigers.com.au

Contacts for Coaches are

Seniors—Jack Gartlan 0403 467 958

Reserves—Daniel Schmidt 0402 698 035

Thirds—Murray Laing 0468 623 650

Thirds—Jake Magill 0431 842 863

Womens—Tom Hughes 0414 960 783