The Northeast Generals exacted revenge on the Danbury Jr. Hat Tricks in their second pre-season matchup in as many days.
Is “revenge” too harsh a word for a game that has no bearing on the standings? Perhaps not, given the level of animosity and physicality prevalent throughout the game.
Three different fighting majors were assessed over the course of the game, including a game-misconduct assessed to Danbury’s Hunter McCurdy and a sequel to yesterday’s bout of fisticuffs for Northeast’s Carson Asper. Though the Generals dressed a very similar lineup, subbing out three forwards and a defenseman for this afternoon’s contest, the Jr. Hat Tricks dressed an all-new unit- 13 new forwards, six new defensemen, two new goalies.
Carter Clafton and Josh Seely split the game in net for the Tricks, both allowing a pair of goals. Hugo Haas allowed two goals in his 31 minutes of play for the Generals, while Joey Stanizzi was perfect in relief.
The Jr. Hat Tricks jumped out to an early lead, with Alex Duncan striking on the powerplay. Liam McCanney would knot up the score just before the first period’s end, redirecting a shot from the point through the legs of Clafton. Northeast would claim their first lead of the pre-season series early in the second, but Danbury responded less than a minute later with a tally of their own. The score would remain deadlocked until midway through the third period, when Matthew Duarte snuck a wrist shot from the left circle short-side on Seely.
Kyle Schroeder would ice the game late with his second goal, beating Seely blocker side.
Danbury now turns its attention towards opening night, set for Oct. 9 at Danbury Arena against the New Jersey Titans. Coverage will be featured on HockeyTV. Final roster decisions are expected to be announced next week.