Game Recap: Hat Tricks, Vasilyev Force Game 3, Defeat Prowlers 4-2 in Danbury

DANBURY — Aleksandr Vasilyev scored the game-winning goal in the third period and the Hat Tricks defeated the Port Huron Prowlers, 4-2, in Game 2 of the Empire Division Semifinals at the Danbury Ice Arena on Saturday.

Vasilyev buried his first goal of the playoffs at 5:27, seconds after Port Huron’s Adam Heinzl’s holding minor expired. The Hat Tricks rallied from a first-period deficit to tie the series and force a winner-take-all elimination game in Danbury.

Port Huron’s Tucker Scantlebury scored off an offensive-zone faceoff to give the Prowlers a 1-0 lead at 5:45 of the first. 

The Hat Tricks countered with back-to-back power play goals in the second period. Josh Labelle potted his second goal of the playoffs from the high slot at 5:02 to tie the game at one and Noah Robinson tipped home a loose puck in front 1:17 later for Danbury’s first lead. Four of the seven Hat Tricks’ goals in the series’ first two games were via the power play.

Gleb Bandurkin sat for hooking at 9:45 and Port Huron’s Austin Fetterly, at 4-on-3 leveled the contest at three with 9:16 to go in the middle frame. 

Port Huron’s Alex Johnson abused an official and was assessed a 10-minute game misconduct with about 3 ½ minutes remaining and Matt Graham was assessed a holding penalty 1:19 later. Bandurkin scored an empty-net goal with nine seconds remaining.

Conor McCollum stopped 26 of 28 shots to earn third-star honors.

Up next, the Hat Tricks battle the Prowlers in a win-or-go-home contest on Easter Sunday. Puck drop is scheduled for 5 p.m.

The 2025 Commissioner's Cup Playoffs are heating up and you can purchase tickets 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.