Despite an impressive display early in the match against Southland Boys High School the Mount Aspiring College (MAC) boys 1st XV lost 72-0 in Wanaka on Saturday (July 31).

Southland is one of the top sides in the premiership division of the Otago Premier Schools rugby competition but it was MAC which had the early territorial advantage as it closed down Southland’s ball runners before they could gain momentum, forcing a number of turnovers.

MAC retained possession for long periods in the first half but could not contain the larger Southland side, conceding three tries to go to the half time break 17-0 down.

Southland dominated the second half, finding holes in the MAC defense with ease. The defensive task was made more difficult for MAC when injuries forced key players from the field.

MAC did have a short period on attack but the team was unable to light up the score board. They finish the premiership round winless.

MAC will now play for a position in the middle four final when it meets Waitaki Boys High School in Oamaru this Saturday (August 7) in a semi-final match. Waitaki finished top of the championship division after an impressive run of five wins on the trot. MAC beat Waitaki earlier in the season 15-10.

Round scores:

Table:

PHOTO: Supplied