Chicago City Wire

The Chicago Hounds faced a challenging match against the Seattle Seawolves, ultimately losing 34-26 after initially leading 26-0. The loss places the Hounds at fourth in the Eastern Conference standings as they prepare for an upcoming conference matchup against the NOLA Gold.

The game started favorably for the Hounds, with scrumhalf Nick McCarthy setting up captain Billy Meakes to assist rookie wing Noah Brown's first try. Flyhalf Adriaan Carelse missed the conversion, but the Hounds led 5-0 early on.

Chicago's defense was strong from the outset, earning multiple penalties. However, Carelse missed two penalty attempts. Despite these setbacks, Julian Dominguez and Mason Flesch each scored tries, extending Chicago’s lead to 24-0. Another successful conversion by Carelse increased their advantage to 26-0 before Seattle responded.

Seattle got on the scoreboard in the 35th minute with a try by Jade Stighling. Mack Mason added another try and successful conversion before halftime, narrowing Chicago's lead to 26-12.

In the second half, Seattle continued their comeback with JP Smith scoring a try and Mason converting it to make it 26-19. Sam Windsor's try further reduced Chicago’s lead to just two points at 26-24.

The decisive moment came in the 75th minute when a penalty allowed Mason to give Seattle their first lead at 27-26. Replacement back Toni Pulu sealed Seattle’s victory with a late try and successful conversion by Mason made it 34-26.

Noah Brown impressed in his first Major League Rugby start, running for a team-leading 142 meters this week. His performance included two tries and several line breaks over his first three MLR games.

Looking ahead, the Hounds will face NOLA Gold next weekend. NOLA Gold currently holds second place in the Eastern Conference with a record of three wins and one loss following a Week 5 bye.