Chicago City Wire

Hounds head coach Chris Latham has announced the Chicago lineup for their upcoming match against the San Diego Legion. The game, which is set to take place at Torero Stadium, will see both teams, leaders of their respective conference tables, face off in week eight. The match will kick off at 7 PM central time and will be broadcast live on Fox Chicago+ and ESPN+.

Latham has made two changes to the team that secured a win over NOLA Gold in week seven. Mark O’Keeffe will feature on the left wing, taking the place of Nate Augspurger, while Zurabi Zhvania will take on the backup loosehead role, replacing Liam Fletcher, and will wear the number 17 jersey.

The front row will see Fakaosifolau Pifeleti, Dylan Fawsitt, and Charlie Abel work together for their fourth start this season. The trio will have support from Zhvania, Jackson Zabierek, and Ignacio Peculo, who will be available from the bench.

James Scott and Hamish Bain will maintain their positions as the first choice lock pairing, while Luke White, known for his versatility, will be available from the bench. White has participated in all six games this season and demonstrated his ability to play multiple positions last weekend.

The back row will remain unchanged. Mason Flesch, who is preparing for his 50th MLR cap, Maclean Jones, and captain Lucas Rumball have been consistent performers for the Hounds during the season. Jones has been in outstanding form this year with a new single-season scoring record. Matthew Oworu will complete the forwards lineup for week eight.

In the backs, Mitch Short and Chris Hilsenbeck will continue in their roles following a strong performance last weekend. Jason Higgins, approaching his 50th cap, and Tim Swiel will offer support at scrumhalf and flyhalf if necessary. Oliver Devoto and Bryce Campbell will play their seventh consecutive game in the center positions.

Mark O’Keeffe will make his second start of the season on the left wing after an injury early in the campaign. O’Keeffe, who has already returned as a replacement, will have a chance to play significant minutes on Saturday.

Completing the back three are Noah Brown on the right wing and Adriaan Carelse at fullback. Noah Flesch, who has appeared in five MLR games as a substitute, will be ready to play in the midfield or across the back three positions.

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