Chicago City Wire

The Chicago Hounds are set to face the Seattle Seawolves in Week 5 of the 2024 Major League Rugby season. The match will take place at SeatGeek Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 5:00 PM CT. Head coach Sam Harris has announced his squad for this encounter against last year's Western Conference Finalists.

Forwards Zurabi Zhvania and Ignacio Peculo are confirmed as starting props for the second week in a row, continuing their strong partnership early in the season. Fred Apulu and Charlie Abel will provide backup from the bench, maintaining consistency from the previous week.

Mason Flesch returns to his role in the second row alongside James Scott, both having started every game this season. Sam Peri remains on standby as a substitute forward.

Conall Boomer, a promising young player from Ireland, is set to start as blindside flanker for the second time this season. Boomer made an impression in Week 3 against Old Glory DC by scoring two tries and earning recognition on the MLR First XV list.

Mac Jones continues as openside flanker for his third consecutive start, while vice-captain Luke White returns to action at No. 8 after a brief absence, replacing Tinashe Muchena on the roster.

Ben Landry may make his first appearance of the season following recovery from an injury sustained during training camp. Canadian Lucas Rumball is also included on the bench, adding depth to Chicago's forward options.

Nick McCarthy retains his position as scrum half and will partner with Adriaan Carelse, who shifts from fullback to flyhalf for this critical match. This change aims to revitalize Chicago's attacking play.

Billy Meakes returns to inside center after experimenting at flyhalf earlier in the season. He joins Mark O’Keeffe in midfield; O’Keeffe delivered an impressive performance against New England last week with significant ball carries and line breaks.

Julian Dominguez is back in action after missing two games and is expected to strengthen Chicago’s offensive lineup. Rookie Noah Brown will make his first start on the right wing following a notable performance off the bench last weekend.

Luke Carty will start at fullback for his first appearance of the season, supported by versatile back Michael Baska on the roster.

Chicago has faced Seattle twice before, with both encounters resulting in victories for Seattle.