It was overcast with slight rain in the wind at Redcloak.

After both teams had a win the previous week, you could feel the tension between the teams before the match.
But it was Highland that made the first try after the kick off and successfully converted with only 5 minutes on the clock. Mackie regrouped, and it was Murray McLaughlin to respond with a fantastic but hard fought try. Henry Aitken successfully converted.
The score 7-7

Highland, now with 15 minutes on the clock, scored another try and again successfully converted.
Mackie once again responded with a try at 21 mins, again coming from Murray.
This time, Henry was unable to convert. Mackie was very much in the game and had clearly rattled the favoured opposition.
Highland was the next to score 23 mins and then again 29 mins in. Both try’s were unconverted.
Half-time score 12-24 to Highland.

Second half once again it was Highland to score the first points with a converted try on 43 minutes.
It felt like Highland had got an edge on Mackie, but 48 minutes Murray once again touched down to score a hat trick but sadly, possibly due to strong prevailing wind, Henry was again unsuccessful with his conversion.
Score now 17-31

Highland converted try 58 minutes in
Highland a further three try’s all unconverted.
Final score 17-53 to Highland.

This was a good game but the score did not give justice to the quality of play by Mackie. Having no substitutes to bring on, especially after a few injuries, was a tough ask. Mackie fronted up well and apart from a few occasions stuck to the game plan.
There is no doubt the team is better structured but we still have a few issues to fix. The team will move forward to the next opposition with clear instruction and practice to eradicate these issues.

There was some outstanding play today by Oscar Wilson making a fantastic break and being only his second match.
Sam Baddeley break to almost reach the opposition’s try line.
But all in all the team must be commended by their unwavering attitude to get stuck in and get on with it.

Finally we must congratulate Highland on their win.
Contrary to the score line, they had a tough day at the office, but they conducted themselves with dignity and good sportsmanship.
Mackie under 15s appreciated them making the journey down.

Bruce Aitken, U15s Coach

A big thank you to the U15s Team Sponsor - Donald Rae & Sons and to the Match Ball Sponsor - Stena Drilling!