By Kim J. Harmon

WESTPORT – The Nighthawks did not have a lot on their plate this week . . . but with a trip down to Westport to take on the Wreckers of Staples (the team that knocked the ‘Hawks out of the CIAC Division II state tournament a year ago), it was a pretty big plate indeed.

But like last year, the Wreckers – only 3-7 on the season – still proved too strong for the ‘Hawks and saddled Newtown with a 15-8 loss.

Sean Raby, who scored a career-best seven goals in a loss to Fairfield Prep a little over a week ago, added four more goals in the loss to Staples, giving him a team-high 25 for the season. John Conlon added two goals and two assists while Matt Saunders and Peter Yemc scored solo goals. Brian Hamilton, Casey Kirch and Ben Kunkel also chipped in with assists.

Shawn Gleason and Brad Burnstein shared the duties in front of the cage and combined for seven saves.

At 4-6, the ‘Hawks will start a nice three-game homestand this week – hosting a strong Somers squad on Friday under the lights at Bruce Jenner Stadium (face-off is set for 7 pm); hosting New Milford on Saturday at 1 pm; and then hosting East Lyme on Tuesday at 5 pm.