Game Recap: Hat Tricks Allow Six Unanswered Goals, Fall 6-3 in Binghamton

Binghamton, N.Y. — The Binghamton Black Bears scored six unanswered goals to rally from a two-goal deficit and defeat the Hat Tricks, 6-3, at Visions Veterans Memorial Arena on Friday. Danbury’s win streak ended at three games and it now trails the season series, 7-2.

Binghamton’s CJ Stubbs scored the game-winner at 3:30 of the third period, lifting the Black Bears ahead, 4-2. Stubbs stole the puck at center ice and broke in on the right wing, wristing it into the top corner.

Austin Thompson had two goals, and earned the first star, while Jonny Ruiz contributed a goal and an assist.

Following a scoreless first 20 minutes, the middle frame featured five combined goals as Danbury scored back-to-back at 1:55 and 6:15. Jacob Ratcliffe centered a pass from the goal line for Aleksandr Vasilyev, who scored in the low slot for Danbury’s first goal of the night and his 10th of the season. Chase Harwell tucked home a free puck on a rebound in front, giving the Hat Tricks a 2-0 lead.

But the Black Bears scored three unanswered goals in the second. Dan Wieber potted a goal from the high slot to get Binghamton on the board at 7:11. Chris Mott batted home a hanging puck in the crease to level the contest at two with 3:29 to go before the Black Bears recovered from Kyle Stephan’s interference minor on Austin Thompson’s shorthanded goal with 1:59 left.

Thompson’s shorthanded goal marked Binghamton’s 15th of the season, an FPHL high.

The scoring barrage carried into the third as the Black Bears buried three more.

After Stubbs made it 4-2, Thompson got his second goal of the night at 10:29 to pad Binghamton’s lead at 5-2 and Cam Clark scored 4:16 later.

Ruiz scored on a rebound in front following Zach Ross’ denied wrist shot at the goal line with 3:28 remaining.

Neither team capitalized on 13 combined power play chances, despite Binghamton (25.8%) holding the FPHL’s best man-advantage scoring and Danbury ranking third (24.6%). 

Conor McCollum made 42 saves but dropped to 20-12-6.

Up next, the Hat Tricks host the Black Bears for the back of a home-and-home on Alumni Night in Danbury. Puck drop is set 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.

The 2025 Commissioner's Cup Playoffs start next month, and our playoff ticket package is on sale now! Lock in your seats for the full playoff run and save. A comprehensive postseason package is just $72—only $12 per ticket, a 35% discount. If any games are not played, you will receive a refund or a credit for the 2025-26 season. To purchase a playoff package, email herm@danburyhattricks.com or call 973-713-7547.

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).