GAME RECAP: DANBURY DEFEATS WATERTOWN 9-5 IN HIGH-SCORING SEASON OPENER

WATERTOWN – The Danbury Hat Tricks won their season opener on Friday night vs the Watertown Wolves, winning a high-scoring 9-5 game. The team improves to 1-0, securing their first opening night win since the 2022-23 start.

The scoring began early when Sam Barnitz sent a puck towards the crease that slipped past Nolan Egbert, giving the Hat Tricks a 1-0 lead. Watertown responded shortly after with goals from Bret Parker and Hunter Hall. But only 27 seconds after the Wolves took the lead, Genaro Fronduto responded, tying it at 2-2. The Hat Tricks added three more goals (Jordon Kromm and two from Kevin Johnston), jumping out to a 5-2 lead. Watertown finished off a high-octane first period with two goals from Donovan Powell and Blake Peavey, leaving the score at 5-4 after a nine-goal opening frame.

Things slowed down in the second as Danbury tightened up their defense. On consecutive powerplays, Stefan Miklakos and Levi Wunder cashed in on the man-advantage, netting their first goals for the franchise. With the score at 7-4 after two periods, Danbury would add another halfway through the third period, with Miklakos scoring again on the powerplay. Bret Parker pulled one back for Watertown, but Kevin Johnston put things to bed as he netted a hat trick in his professional debut.

After a 9-5 win tonight, the Hat Tricks will look to complete their sweep tomorrow night in Watertown.

The Danbury Hat Tricks are a professional hockey team based in Danbury, CT and compete in the Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL). Since their founding in 2019, the 2023 Commissioner's Cup Champions have brought thrilling, fast-paced, and hard-hitting hockey to the Danbury Ice Arena, earning a reputation for their competitive spirit, electric atmosphere and strong community ties. The team is dedicated to providing an unforgettable game-day experience for fans of all ages while proudly representing the city of Danbury.

Off the ice, the Hat Tricks are committed to fostering connections within the local community through outreach programs with schools, businesses and charities. By developing top-tier hockey talent and growing the sport in the region, the Hat Tricks aim to bring the community together and deliver entertainment that leaves a lasting impact.

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