In the best weather to recent memory, Ellon hosted an event to allow teams to catch up on previously postponed fixtures for the Culblean Challenge.

Mackie vs Ellon

Ellon opened the scoring, but Mackie hit back through Freddie Ball, converted by Haz. Another Ellon try gave them a 12–7 lead at halftime.

In the second half, Finlay Boyd scored a try from a tap-and-go, with Haz converting again. Ellon responded, but Mackie struck again with a second try from Freddie Ball, Haz staying perfect from the tee. A late converted try from Ellon sealed the win as Mackie ran out of time to retaliate.

Player of the Match: Leon Howie: Controlled the game well, strong decision‑making, maturity and game management big defensive effort.

Howie’s Hero: Lawrence Bartholomew: Huge increase in work rate, strong carries, and excellent physical presence in the rucks.

Mackie put in a strong performance in a close contest against Ellon, eventually falling short 21–26 despite some excellent attacking moments and improved all‑round play.

Wanderers vs Mackie

Mackie opened the scoring through Kamzi ( converted by Haz), before Wanderers hit back with a converted try. Finlay Boyd then restored the lead with a well‑taken try, Haz kicking successfully for a 14–7 halftime advantage.

The second half was all Mackie. Boyd added two more tries to complete his hat-trick, all converted by Haz. Wanderers managed an unconverted try, but Mackie pulled away with further scores from Harry Pratt, back to back tries from Leon Howie, and another from Hamish Main.

Mackie produced a dominant performance to secure a strong win over Wanderers, showing sharp attack and control throughout.

Mackie 54 – Wanderers 12

Player of the Match: Harry Pratt: Powerful, all round performance in both games, superb from the tee and thriving with the forwards.

Howie’s Hero: Robert Aitken: Robert was outstanding at outside centre working tirelessly across the pitch. His tackling, energy and work rate made him a standout performer.

Notable Mentions to Freddie Ball: two brilliant tries, a constant threat and showed great strength and determination in his match. Liam Gibson demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship in assisting Wanderers when they were a man down. Finlay Boyd was Outstanding attacking threat throughout both matches and Scott Argo, who showed great commitment in his first match.

Great improvements from everyone in structure and organisation and defensive work.

Well done to all the team for pulling a double shift. Thank you to our coaches and a big thank you to the other teams for making today happen.

Ian Howie, U13s Lead Coach

A big thank you to the U13s Team Sponsor - McKnight Associates