DANBURY, Conn. — Ilja Nikitins delivered a flawless performance with 31 saves, and Jordan Brothers scored the lone goal as the Philadelphia Rebels (12-14-1-4) earned a hard-fought 1–0 win over the Danbury Hat Tricks (12-13-1-2) on Tuesday afternoon at Danbury Ice Arena.
Brothers broke the deadlock with five minutes remaining in the second period, capitalizing on a rebound to give the Rebels the only offense they needed. Brothers goal marked his ninth on the campaign. The goal stood up the rest of the way thanks to Nikitins, who turned aside every Danbury opportunity, including a late push in the final minutes.
Nikitins stopped 11 shots in the first period, six in the second and 14 in the third to secure his first career NAHL shutout. Danbury’s Luke Brassil was sharp on the other end with 28 saves on 29 shots.
The Rebels were perfect on the penalty kill, shutting down all three Danbury chances, including a crucial kill in the third period.
Philadelphia continues its road swing on Friday as it takes on the New Jersey Titans, with puck drop set for 7:00 p.m.