Chicago City Wire

Sam Harris has announced the lineup for the Chicago Hounds' important match against the New England Free Jacks. This Major League Rugby Game of the Week will be broadcast live on FS2, showcasing the top two teams in the Eastern Conference.

In their previous encounter during week four, the Free Jacks narrowly defeated the Hounds with a score of 22-17. The upcoming game is scheduled to start at 11 AM CT at Veterans’ Memorial Stadium in Quincy, Massachusetts.

Charlie Abel will continue as loosehead prop, marking his fourth consecutive start. He will team up with Ignacio Peculo in the props. Fred Apulu and Paddy Ryan remain as backup props on the bench.

Dylan Fawsitt, an All-Pro hooker, will make his seventh start this season against New England. "The perennial all-pro is on an absolute heater right now and it has been fun to watch," noted Harris about Fawsitt's recent performance. Janus Venter will aim for his fourth cap from the replacements.

Mason Flesch and James Scott form the lock pairing once again. Both have had seven starts this season. Flesch is having a breakout year while Scott leads in dominant tackles with six.

Ben Landry continues at blindside flanker and Mac Jones registers his seventh consecutive start of the season. Conall Boomer completes the starting forward pack at No. 8 position.

Jason Higgins starts at scrumhalf for a third consecutive game alongside flyhalf Adriaan Carelse who is nearing a personal best season record in points scored.

Captain Billy Meakes reaches a milestone of 50 Major League Rugby caps as he plays inside center alongside Bryce Campbell.

Nate Augspurger and rookie Noah Brown return as wings, both having scored tries recently. Luke Carty retains his fullback position after impressive performances, while Mark O’Keeffe seeks to return to action since week six against New Orleans.

Cassh Maluia is also included in this week's squad, ready to contribute off the bench.