Game Recap: Bandurkin's Hat Trick Propels Danbury to 4-2 Win Over Wolves

Watertown, N.Y. — Gleb Bandurkin registered his second-career hat trick and the Hat Tricks defeated the Watertown Wolves, 4-2, at Watertown Municipal Arena for the first time this season on Friday.

Bandurkin netted the game’s opening three goals 27 minutes into the contest. The rookie Russian buried the first goal for the Hat Tricks at 4:17 of the first period, capitalizing on a centering feed from Aleksandr Vasilyev.

Nearly 2:35 into the second, Bandurkin tucked in a rebound through traffic to double the lead, 2-0. The winger then snatched Danbury’s third hat trick of the season and first since Vadim Frolov’s on Feb. 14 at Port Huron (7-2W) pouncing on a free puck in the slot.

Jonny Ruiz logged his 300th point with the Hat Tricks, assisting on Jacob Ratcliffe’s insurance goal late in the middle frame.

Watertown’s Steven Klinck scored unassisted at 7:44 in the second to put the Wolves on the board, 4-1. Carter Thornton’s tip-in on the doorstep reduced the lead to two in the third, but the Hat Tricks held firm late.

The Hat Tricks controlled the opening frame, occupying the offensive zone and outshooting the Wolves 11-6. Danbury’s penalty killed off the game’s only two power plays.

Conor McCollum stopped 27 shots, improving to 15-10-4 with wins in five of his last six starts.

With the win, the Hat Tricks improved to 3-1-4 against Watertown this season, 1-0-4 on the road.

Up next, the Hat Tricks return home to face off with the Port Huron Prowlers on Saturday. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m.

ABOUT DANBURY HAT TRICKS:

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.

Danbury Hat Tricks single-game tickets and full/partial season membership plans are still available for purchase. If you are interested, email herm@danburyhattricks.com or go to Tixr.

To stay up to date on all things Danbury Hat Tricks hockey, go to danburyhattricks.com and follow the team on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok (@DanburyHatTricks).