Rau said that defence had been the major difference between the two teams.
"We've done a lot of work on defence and we were aggressive defensively and although it cost us a few penalties we made a statement that we were up for it and in the end I think they [the Tigers] tired both mentally and physically and we were still going at the end of 80 minutes," he said.
Prop Steve Rau, Jarom Wihongi-Henare were outstanding with both Rau brothers scoring a try. Another was scored by Chiefy Yates, Jack Walker slotted three conversions.
For the Tigers, Anaru Thompson scored a double, Herewini McGregor scored another and Jayden Bently-Hape kicked a conversion.
Many of the players will now turn their attention to the Northern Swords national campaign. Joe Rau will coach the side in the campaign and wants to see improvement in their season.
"We're all up for another challenge and as long as we improve from where we were last year, I'll be happy," he said.
The Northland faithful will be hoping he has the same good fortune with the provincial team as he did with the Stags.