The Mount Aspiring College (MAC) boys 1st XV rugby side has been promoted to the premiership division of Otago Schools rugby after placing in the top two of the championship division with a 30-10 win over Otago Combined in Wanaka on Saturday (June 19).

MAC was expected to dominate a winless Otago Combined and that is how the first half played out, with MAC enjoying a wealth of possession and territory to lead 15-0 at the half time break, scoring three unanswered tries.

The quality of the match deteriorated in the second half with both sides turning over possession and making numerous errors.

“Our game was far from perfect but the boys got the job done getting the win and deserve their place in the premiership for the second round,” MAC coach Gareth Howley said.

“We will look to improve our performance as we come up against the best schools in Otago”.

MAC prop Eligh Hollegien on the charge against Otago Combined

Thomas Evans was the stand out performer for MAC with strong defence in the mid field and creating havoc on attack. He was rewarded with two tries.

The win ensured MAC qualified for promotion to the premiership division of Otago schools rugby for round two of the competition where they will face the best of the best 1st XV’s from across Otago and Southland.

This Saturday (June 26) MAC travels to Dunedin to play Kings High School. Kings topped the first round of the premiership division suffering just one loss (19-17) to Otago Boys High School.

MAC scorers:

Tries: Thomas Evans (2), Harry Gilbertson, Ollie Haines, Stian Langvik-Owen, Dane Bowler

Round Scores:

Tables:

PHOTOS: Supplied