Game Recap: Hat Tricks Allow Six Unanswered Goals, Drop Game One to Prowlers, 6-3

Port Huron, Mich. — The Port Huron Prowlers scored six unanswered goals, including four in the third period, to defeat the Hat Tricks, 6-3, in Game 1 of the Empire Division Semifinals at McMorran Arena on Friday.

The Prowlers netted back-to-back goals in the second and another early in the third to establish their first lead at 3-2. Bobby Price scored shorthanded at 9:16 of the middle frame, reducing the deficit to 2-1, and Drew Welsch tapped home the tying goal in front on the power play at 11:25.

Vadim Frolov’s slashing minor carried into the third and Port Huron’s Alex Johnson scored on the man advantage from below the right circle 39 seconds into the third for the game-winning goal.

Just more than 3 ½ minutes into the third, Port Huron’s Jamie Bucell centered a takeaway from behind Danbury’s goal for Lukas Lacny, who gave the Prowlers a 4-2 advantage. Reginald Millette then scored back-to-back goals, the first at 4:08 in the low slot, and potted a rebound in front at 8:51, extending Port Huron’s lead to 6-2.

Harwell tipped in the game’s first goal at 6:36 of the opening period to break the stalemate. The forward from Southbury, Conn., scored 28 goals in the regular season as Danbury’s third leading goal scorer and tallied his first FPHL playoff goal. Danbury's Defensive Player of the Year Josh Labelle snapped home a left point shot past Cooper at 7:21 of the second period to grow the lead to 2-0.

Jacob Ratcliffe buried a power play goal with 23 seconds remaining as Danbury went 1-for-8 on the man advantage. Its penalty kill delivered in five of seven opportunities.

Conor McCollum made 34 saves on 40 shots and was replaced by Frankie McClendon at 8:51 of the third.

Up next, the Hat Tricks return home to Danbury on Saturday for Game 2 and look to force a deciding game at home on Easter Sunday. Puck drop is scheduled for 8 p.m.

The 2025 Commissioner's Cup Playoffs are HERE and you can purchase tickets to Round 1 on Tixr, or by calling 973-713-7547. Suites, group options, and birthday packages are available! 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.

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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.