Chicago City Wire

The Chicago Hounds secured a close victory over the San Diego Legion with a 27-20 scoreline, marking an important win in a top-tier rugby clash. Chris Hilsenbeck's precision with the kicking tee contributed 10 points, with Mason Flesch, Hamish Bain, and Lucas Rumball each scoring a try. This match held significance not only for the points but also as Mason Flesch and Jason Higgins earned their 50th Major League Rugby caps during the game.

Hilsenbeck initiated the scoring with an early penalty due to a ruck infraction by the Legion, giving Chicago a 3-0 lead. Shortly after, San Diego's right wing Rhian Stowers scored a try, converted by Lincoln McClutchie, changing the lead in favor of the Legion to 7-3. The Hounds responded as Flesch crossed the line for his third try this season, followed by Hilsenbeck's conversion, reclaiming the lead for Chicago.

The game was level after McClutchie's penalty for San Diego, but Hilsenbeck's subsequent penalty regained a 13-10 lead for the Hounds. Before halftime, San Diego edged in front with a try from Christian Poidevein and another McClutchie conversion, bringing the score to 17-13. Yet, Chicago was determined to finish the half positively, with Hamish Bain scoring under the posts and Hilsenbeck's conversion bringing the halftime score to 20-17 in their favor.

The second half saw no score change until the Legion tied the game after a 56th-minute penalty. The Hounds' effective strategy eventually paid off when Lucas Rumball scored his first try as a Chicago Hound, which Hilsenbeck successfully converted for a seven-point lead, finishing the scoring at 27-20.

Chicago's defense withstood late pressure from the Legion to secure victory, marking the first home loss for San Diego in over 300 days. With this result, the Hounds maintain their position atop the Eastern Conference table with 27 points. Meanwhile, their upcoming opponents, the Carolina Anthem, are at the bottom of the table.