Chicago City Wire

For the third consecutive weekend, the Chicago Hounds will be on the road as they prepare to face Old Glory DC. Both teams currently hold a 1-1 record in this early stage of the season. The match is scheduled for Saturday afternoon at 3 PM CST.

Head Coach Sam Harris has announced significant changes to the team's roster for Week 3. The front row sees a complete overhaul from last weekend's lineup against the Warriors. Fred Apulu is set to make his first Major League Rugby (MLR) start at loosehead prop, having previously come off the bench in two games. Ignacio Peculo returns to the starting lineup at tighthead prop for his second start of the year. Guillermo Pujadas, an Uruguayan international, will make his first start of the season as well.

The previous starting trio of Zurabi Zhvania, Dylan Fawsitt, and Paddy Ryan are moved to the bench for this important conference game.

Mason Flesch will take over as No. 4 this weekend after starting as blindside flanker in previous games. James Scott retains his starting position but moves from No. 4 to No. 5. Brad Tucker continues in his role wearing No. 19.

Conall Boomer steps into a starting role as blindside flanker after debuting from the bench last weekend. Mac Jones will also start, marking his first appearance in 2024 after being a regular starter last season.

Luke White continues as vice-captain with his third start of the year at No. 8, while Tinashe Muchena could see action from the bench.

The scrumhalf duo remains unchanged with Nick McCarthy leading and Jason Higgins providing backup support. Billy Meakes is set for another start at flyhalf, and Caolan Dooley may debut from the bench.

Bryce Campbell aims to lead defensively from inside center while Cassh Maluia makes his MLR debut at No. 13 with expectations high for offensive contributions.

Nate Augspurger switches wings and Dave Kearney is fit to debut on the right wing, promising a blend of experience and potential in attack and defense alongside Adriaan Carelse who maintains his fullback position.

Rookie Noah Brown could see playing time from the bench, offering potential impact late in the game.

The Hounds have only faced Old Glory DC once before in their inaugural MLR match where DC secured a decisive victory over Chicago.