SeatGeek Stadium | Chicago Hounds
SeatGeek Stadium | Chicago Hounds
The Chicago Hounds secured a narrow victory over Old Glory DC in Major League Rugby's Week Five Game of the Week, finishing 30-26. The match took place on Saturday afternoon in Chicago, where the Hounds built a significant lead by halftime but faced a strong comeback from DC in the final quarter. This win places the Hounds at 4-1 for the season and strengthens their position as contenders in the Eastern Conference as they approach their bye week.
Chris Hilsenbeck, playing flyhalf, contributed significantly to Chicago's score with 13 points from three penalty kicks and two conversions. Flanker Mac Jones added to his season tally with two tries, bringing his total to four.
The game began with Hilsenbeck scoring a penalty goal in the ninth minute after missing an earlier attempt. Despite dominating possession early on, Chicago only led by three points initially. DC responded quickly with a try through their right wing but failed to maintain momentum due to errors that allowed Chicago back into scoring positions.
Mac Jones capitalized on one such opportunity, scoring a try that put Chicago ahead 8-5. With Hilsenbeck converting successfully, the score increased to 10-5 before the first half water break. Following this, another penalty goal by Hilsenbeck extended their lead further.
A series of penalties against DC culminated in a yellow card for Jack Iscaro and resulted in a penalty try awarded to Chicago, pushing their lead to 20-5 by halftime.
In the second half, despite extending their lead with another penalty kick from Hilsenbeck, DC fought back with consecutive tries and conversions by Jason Robertson. This reduced Chicago's lead to just four points midway through the second half.
Jones' second try provided some relief for Chicago as time ran down. However, DC continued pressing and narrowed the gap again with another converted try late in the game. Ultimately, it was Chicago's defense that held firm during critical moments towards the end of play, ensuring victory when Robertson mishandled the ball in stoppage time.
Alerts Sign-up