Chicago City Wire

The Chicago Hounds secured a playoff spot in the 2025 Major League Rugby season by defeating the Carolina Anthem 33-19 on Saturday night. Flyhalf Chris Hilsenbeck led Chicago's scoring with eight points from four successful conversion attempts.

Chicago's victory was bolstered by tries from hooker Dylan Fawsitt, flanker Mac Jones, centers Noah Flesch and Bryce Campbell, and wing Julian Dominguez. The match began with Carolina taking an early lead through fullback Mitch Wilson, but they missed the conversion kick.

Chicago quickly responded as wing Noah Brown advanced past the gain line, followed by scrumhalf Jason Higgins' strong carry. This created space for center Bryce Campbell to score his first try of the season, which Hilsenbeck converted for a 7-5 lead.

A penalty against Carolina allowed Chicago to kick for the corner. After winning a lineout and subsequent maul, hooker Dylan Fawsitt scored his eighth try of the season. With another successful conversion from Hilsenbeck, Chicago extended their lead to 14-5.

As halftime approached, center Noah Flesch scored his first career MLR try after connecting with fullback Tim Swiel on a sideline run. Hilsenbeck's consistent kicking brought the score to 21-5.

Before halftime ended, flanker Mac Jones scored following coordinated passes from scrumhalf Jason Higgins and prop Charlie Abel. With another conversion by Hilsenbeck, Chicago entered halftime leading 28-5.

Carolina attempted a comeback in the second half with two unanswered tries narrowing the gap to 28-19. However, reserve wing Julian Dominguez sealed Chicago's win with his first try of the season. Reserve back Adriaan Carelse missed the conversion attempt.

This win confirmed Chicago's place in the playoffs after inconsistent performances in recent weeks. Rookie wing Peyton Wall stood out with a franchise record of running 142 meters in a single game. The team now prepares to face NOLA Gold at SeatGeek Stadium next Saturday at 6 p.m.