Game Recap: McCollum’s Second Career Shutout Powers Hat Tricks to Weekend Sweep

DANBURY — Conor McCollum registered his second career shutout, Dylan Hullaby scored the game-winning goal in the second period, and the Hat Tricks defeated the Motor City Rockers, 1-0, at the Danbury Ice Arena on Saturday.

McCollum stopped 44 shots and Hullaby logged his first Hat Tricks goal in his second game to lift the Hat Tricks to their third weekend sweep of the season and first shutout since their 4-0 home victory against Port Huron on Dec. 23, 2023. Danbury took the season series over the Rockers, 4-3.

Hullaby and Noah Robinson connected on an odd-man rush to lift Danbury ahead at 6:53 of the second. Hullaby notched his second point with the club since arriving via trade from Monroe on Monday.

A penalty shot was awarded to Motor City’s Cody Oakes, who was replaced by Eli Rivers due to injury 5:08 into the second. Rivers failed to convert through the five-hole, however, as McCollum stymied Danbury’s first opponent penalty shot since Jan. 28, 2022, when Carolina’s Dan Martin attempted.

Conversely to their 6-1 home win on Friday, the Hat Tricks started slowly without many sustained trips in the offensive zone through the game’s first 26 minutes. But Hullaby’s snipe in the middle frame was the only one needed to nudge Danbury to within four points of Watertown for third place in the Empire Division.

McCollum won in consecutive starts for the third time this season and earned first-star recognition.

Up next, the Hat Tricks take on Watertown on the road on Friday for the start of a home-and-home with the Wolves. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 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).