Chicago City Wire

The Chicago Hounds experienced a first in their franchise history by ending a Major League Rugby match in a draw. The team tied with Old Glory DC 22-22 on Saturday afternoon near Washington D.C. This marked the conclusion of Week 3 for both teams.

Flanker Conall Boomer made an impressive starting debut, scoring twice for the Hounds. Prop Zurabi Zhvania added another try, his second this season. Fullback Adriaan Carelse contributed with one penalty kick and one conversion kick.

Carelse opened the scoring early for Chicago after DC lock Rob Harley committed a breakdown penalty in the 11th minute, allowing Carelse to secure a narrow lead of 3-0.

Shortly thereafter, Hounds center Cassh Maluia was penalized for a breakdown error, which led to DC's first try by hooker Martin Vaca following a well-executed tap play. Flyhalf Jason Robertson's conversion gave DC a 10-13 lead just before the hydration break.

Chicago responded in the 25th minute when flanker Maclean Jones assisted Boomer for his first try of the day. However, DC quickly retaliated as fullback Damien Hoyland advanced downfield until he was stopped by Carelse and scrumhalf Nick McCarthy. DC wing Axel Muller then scored from a ruck pass, securing another seven-pointer.

Before halftime, DC flanker Jameson Fa’anana-Schultz received a red card for hitting captain Billy Meakes mid-air. Despite having an advantage, Chicago could not fully capitalize due to Mason Flesch's disallowed try because of extra movement after conversion attempt had been kicked. A missed drop goal from DC left the score at 14-10 at halftime.

In the second half, Boomer secured his second try after another penalty by Harley allowed Carelse to set up a lineout leading to Boomer’s score and giving Chicago a brief lead at 17-14.

DC regained momentum as Robertson equalized with a penalty kick and later assisted Muller’s second try with a cross-field kick that hit the post on conversion attempt but still put them ahead by five points.

Zhvania brought Chicago back into contention with his own unopposed try following an overlap identified near DC’s line thanks to Nate Augspurger’s long pass tying it up at 22-22.

The closing moments were tense; Dylan Fawsitt almost scored what would have been decisive only to be halted meters short while DC failed two crucial attempts—a drop goal and penalty kick—leaving both teams frustrated with no clear winner emerging from this encounter.

The Hounds now hold a record of 1-1-1 as they gear up for their home opener against New England Free Jacks next Sunday where fans are encouraged to purchase tickets online.

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