MBC First XV prepare to lace up

There will be more than just intercollegiate pride and competition points at stake when Marlborough Boys’ College First XV and their Christchurch Boys’ High School counterparts meet on Saturday, July 19.

Both sides head into the final round robin match unbeaten, proudly sitting atop the Miles Toyota premiership table. The victor will earn the right to host the final, if both teams navigate their way past testing semifinal opponents.

Underlining the importance of the occasion is the fact the MBC Falcons will shift from their usual home ground at the College and play at Marlborough rugby headquarters, Lansdowne Park number one.

CBHS top the premiership table by a point from MBC, courtesy of securing a bonus point in every match, but the season’s results suggest Saturday’s match will be evenly-matched.

The MBC players have benefitted from two week’s rest after three away games on the bounce, a break that head coach Tonga Taumoefolau said came at just the right time, allowing them to recharge their batteries.

It is expected that co-captain Ben Gibbons will be back for the Boys’ High clash, having missed several matches with injury. He, alongside the Nicklin brothers, Mason and Rico, Jordyn Gardiner, George Adams, Tom Robinson, Finn Neal and Jake Gane, will provide the heart of a formidable pack.

In the backline, Josh Flynn, Ajay Gane, Anru Erasmus, Kyan Marcroft and Justin Prescott add flair and game management, a crucial component against such a well-drilled and well-organised outfit.

The match is due to kick off at 11am.

Adding more gravity to the occasion is an opportunity to raise funds for a very worthy cause – Lachie’s Laces.

June 30, 2025, marked five years since the passing of Lachie Sutherland, a bright, sport-loving young man whose spirit continues to inspire. To honour his memory, friends, family, and schools are coming together through the game he loved.

On Saturday, MBC will join with First XVs from Christchurch BHS, Christchurch GHS, Christ’s College, Nelson College and St Bede’s College in wearing vibrant yellow shoelaces — a tribute to Lachie and a show of support for kids with cancer.

Those attending the match are encouraged to buy a set of laces and wear them to the game, while others will be able to donate on the day.

You can get your Lachie’s Laces online (www.lachieslaces.co.nz) or pick them up in person at Haven Cafe, 74A Cleghorn St. All proceeds go to the Child Cancer Foundation.