It was the first hitout of the season yesterday for the Tigers as they took on reigning premiers the Springwood Pumas in an extended practice match at the Den over six quarters. The senior group played the first four quarters while the Reserves finished the day with two quarters.
It may have just been a trial match but both sides came to play with the opening quarter a very physical dual with little quarter asked or given. While both sides were not at their full strength it was clear that there was plenty of talent in both teams setting the scene for another good year for both clubs.
The Tigers new recruit Beau Harris showed plenty of what he has in store for the club with an impressive effort over four quarters. Harris adds some handy pace to the Tigers as well as a strong defensive side to his skillset which will be very useful this year.
Will Brohm has been impressive for the Tigers over the pre-season on and off the field since joining the group late last year. After much anticipation about what he might add to the Tigers, he didn’t disappoint yesterday with his impressive skills including a penetrating kick which set the Tigers up all day. He will be one to watch this year for all the Tiger faithful.
The Pumas still look the full package that took them to their giant killing grand final performance against the Kings last year. Rowan Paige was once again as dangerous as ever while former Mayne Tiger Jake Warren impressed with his reading of the play, hard running and precise skills. In addition to being a great talent, he is a quality person as well.
The game opened up in the second term with both sides able to show their attacking prowess. Club Captain Zac McLean was in good form to start his campaign as he accumulated possessions around the ground while five time Club Champion Jack Collings just keeps on doing what he does best winning the hard ball and getting the Tigers going forward under all manner of pressure. These two will once again show the way for the Tigers in 2024.
Louis Quin continues to take steps to a new level each year and it was on show yesterday as he put his strong body to good use with his crash through approach to open up opportunities for the Tigers while new recruit Dan Saunders let the competition know he is here to play with his aggressive running and tackling.
The Tigers opened up a small lead in the third quarter which they were able to hold on for the remainder of the game in what was an otherwise very even performance for the two clubs.
The Tigers will be pleased with spearhead Ryan Doolan’s form to start the year as he led effectively, took some strong marks and finished off as expected.
Big men Dan Schmidt and Jamie Ivers gave the Tigers plenty around the ground at the ruck contests. Schmidt was impressive behind the ball while Ivers is a handful in the air up front to give the Tigers some quality options. A new look forward line with the experienced Ryan Eyles getting a new role in attack to support the dangerous Casey Barber adds plenty of defensive forward pressure.
James Stolz and Mitch Bruce along with Jeremy Duck were solid in defence and will now have the opportunity to lead the men’s department with the retirement of Dean Hartley at the end of 2024.
Both sides will be pleased with their performances yesterday in what was a very entertaining game played in good spirit while still being a willing contest. They will meet each other three times in this year’s fixtures so will get plenty of opportunity to get to know each other well.
