Chicago City Wire

Chicago's Head Coach Chris Latham has announced the roster for the upcoming 2025 Eastern Conference Final, keeping the same lineup that triumphed over Old Glory DC in last weekend's semi-finals. This match will serve as a rematch of the previous year's final, where the Free Jacks claimed victory and eventually secured the 2024 MLR Shield.

The final is set to commence at noon Central Time on Saturday at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Quincy, Massachusetts, with ESPN2 broadcasting live coverage.

Key players such as Fakaosifolau Pifeleti, Dylan Fawsitt, and Charlie Abel form an experienced front row with a combined total of 273 caps. They have been integral to the forward pack's performance throughout the season. Notably, Pifeleti achieved a personal best of 14 tackles in their recent game against Old Glory DC, while Abel scored his first try of the season during that semi-final.

James Scott and Hamish Bain will partner again in the second row after making a strong defensive impact against Old Glory. Together they managed 27 tackles from 32 attempts. Scott is on track to surpass 200 tackles this season, marking a new career high.

The back-row will feature Mason Flesch, Mac Jones, and Lucas Rumball. Rumball's return from injury adds strength to their lineup after missing their Week 13 visit to New England. Each player recorded over 13 tackles in their recent match against DC.

Janus Venter, Liam Fletcher, and Ignacio Peculo remain as front-row reserves on the bench. Luke White and Matt Oworu are expected to contribute significantly off the bench wearing numbers 19 and 20 respectively.

Jason Higgins continues as scrumhalf alongside Chris Hilsenbeck in halfbacks roles. Hilsenbeck was recently named to the USA squad for upcoming test matches against Belgium, Spain, and England. His accurate kicking contributed 12 points last weekend through conversions and penalty kicks.

Ollie Devoto and Bryce Campbell are tasked with containing New England’s midfield duo Le Roux Malan and Ben LeSage. Devoto scored his third try this season during their semi-final win over DC.

Rookie Peyton Wall starts again following his standout performance against DC where he ran for 116 meters with two line breaks while evading five defenders. Noah Brown lines up opposite him on right wing with Tim Swiel providing leadership from fullback position.

Substitutes Michael Baska, Adriaan Carelse, and Mark O’Keeffe retain spots aiming to help secure Chicago’s first Eastern Conference title win.

Both teams won one game each during regular-season encounters held at home venues which hints towards another closely fought contest possibly decided by effective kicking strategies. Fans can catch all action live via ESPN broadcast starting at noon CT this Saturday or join watch party hosted by Hounds’ supporters at Guinness Open Gate Brewery beginning from an hour prior kick-off time.