Óengus of Moray and Máel Coluim mac Alaxandair invaded Scotland with 5,000 warriors according to the Anglo-Norman chronicler Orderic Vitalis.

[1] This invasion was launched by the joint forces of Moray and Ross at an opportunistic moment to destabilise David I of Scotland's control as he was visiting England.

[2] David had spent most of 1130 in England to serve as a judge at Henry I's court, as well as to attend the dedication service of Canterbury Cathedral.

[3] The rebellion was led by two pretenders to the Scottish crown, Máel Coluim mac Alaxandair (Malcolm)—the illegitimate son of Alexander I of Scotland—and Óengus of Moray (Angus).

Details of the invasion are sparse in the historical record; however, it is recognised that the aim was to depose David and replace him with Angus—as a legitimate heir.