Chicago City Wire

CHICAGO, IL - The Chicago Hounds are set to face the Houston Sabercats in a Major League Rugby match this weekend. Coach Sam Harris has announced his lineup for the game. The Hounds, currently holding a 5-4-1 record, will play against the 9-1 Sabercats in Houston, Texas. Chicago is coming off a narrow loss to Old Glory DC and is positioned second in the Eastern Conference standings. In contrast, Houston recently secured a victory over the Carolina Anthem.

The starting tight five remains unchanged from last week's defeat. Charlie Abel will start at loosehead prop alongside Paddy Ryan at tighthead prop, with Dylan Fawsitt as hooker. This marks Fawsitt's 91st MLR cap and 80th start. George Merrick and James Scott continue their partnership in the second row, contributing significantly to the team's defense.

Ben Landry returns to the starting lineup after playing off the bench last week. Maclean Jones will make his ninth consecutive start as blindside flanker and leads the team with 119 tackles this season. Conall Boomer completes the back row for Week 12.

Coach Harris has opted for a 6-2 split on the bench, including Janus Venter as backup hooker and Fred Apulu and Ignacio Peculo as reserve props. Mason Flesch and Brad Tucker are also named among the substitutes, with Luke White seeking his 75th MLR cap from the bench.

Nick McCarthy enters as scrumhalf for his first start since week six against New Orleans. Bryce Campbell takes on captaincy duties in Billy Meakes' absence due to paternity leave and shifts to inside center. Mark O’Keeffe joins Campbell in midfield for his first start since week six.

Luke Carty returns at fullback, replacing Dave Kearney who moves to the bench alongside Cassh Maluia.