The Mount Aspiring College (MAC) boys 1st XV earned bragging rights with a valuable 29-10 win over Wakatipu High School on Saturday May 29.

The match, played at Wakatipu High School in freezing and wet conditions, was dominated by the weather, restricting play to a forward tussle with little opportunity for quality ball movement.

“This week the team had a great attitude to overcome Wakatipu and the conditions on a cold and rainy day,” MAC coach Gareth Houley said. 

“A big improvement from the week before.”

MAC had the benefit of a gentle breeze at their backs in the first half but found themselves under pressure for much of the period. Despite the lack of possession MAC went to the halftime break ahead 19-5 thanks to a fortuitous try to centre Ben Simmers off a Wakatipu mistake and an intercept try to impressive wing Zach Smith.

MAC fullback Cullen Meyer looks to make a break.

A strong 30m burst by No. 8 Otis Harry late in the half resulted in a converted try to provide the visitors with a comfortable halftime margin.

Playing into the breeze in the second half MAC upped the intensity, managing to control the ball well in testing conditions. The bonus point fourth try came when prop Eligh Hollegien forced his way over after a period of sustained pressure.

A late Wakatipu attack resulted in a try to the homeside before Hollegien went over for his second try of the match from a well worked lineout drive on full time.

MAC’s No. 8 Otis Harry had a powerful game and Hollegien was industrious in the tight. 

MAC’s next match is against Waitaki Boys High School in Oamaru on Saturday June 12.

MAC scorers:

Tries: Eligh Hollegien (2), Zach Smith, Ben Simmers, Otis Harry

Conversions: Cullen Meyer (2)

Round scores:

Points table:

PHOTOS: Supplied