The Coachella Valley Firebirds defeated the Ontario Reign on Friday at Acrisure Arena by the final score of 5-3. Cale Fleury scored twice and Shane Wright netted three points in the win that gave the Firebirds a 2-0 lead in the best-of-five series.

The Firebirds scored three times in the first period. John Hayden netted the game’s first goal just 1:57 in on a quick pass from Marian Studenic. Cale Fleury extended the team’s lead with a wrist shot that beat Erik Portillo for his first goal of the night. Jani Nyman cashed in on the powerplay at 14:21 on his first AHL playoff goal. Coachella Valley scored their three goals on eight shots in the opening frame. 

Following a tough bounce that put the Reign on the board, Ryan Winterton found space behind the net and put the puck on net. After deflecting off Portillo’s pad, Shane Wright muscled the puck past the Ontario netminder to regain Coachella Valley’s three-goal lead. 

Hayden Hodgson put the Reign back within two with a powerplay goal that was answered by Fleury’s second goal of the game at 8:16 of the third. TJ Tynan redirected Ontario’s second powerplay of the game at 10:28 but Chris Driedger and the Firebirds withstood 18 shots in the third period to seal the victory.

Coachella Valley was outshot 35-28. The Firebirds’ powerplay finished the game 2-for-7 and the penalty kill went 3-for-5. 

The Firebirds look to close out the series this Sunday, May 19 at Toyota Arena in Ontario. Puck drop is set for 7pm PT.

For the game’s full box score, click HERE.

POSTSEASON TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Tickets for the 2024 Calder Cup Playoffs at Acrisure Arena are on sale now! Visit Ticketmaster to get your tickets before it’s too late!

TICKET UPGRADE

Looking to enhance your experience for a Firebirds game? Upgrade any ticket for access to The Compound, the newest VIP space at Acrisure Arena offering fans access to a stunning outdoor space featuring private bar, food, exclusive Firebirds merchandise options, covered seating, firepits along with access to a variety of backyard games from putt-putt and pickleball to cornhole and bocce ball and more! Upgrade options are available at the game or by clicking HERE.

Don’t miss a moment of Coachella Valley Firebirds’ hockey! Group, Flex, and Individual tickets for remainder of the 2023-24 season are on sale now! Season Tickets Memberships for 2024-25 are also on sale! For more information on ticket options, click HERE or call 760-835-8778.

Get a jump on the 2024-25 Firebirds season with season tickets on sale now! In addition to all Firebirds home games, season ticket members will have access to the 2025 AHL All Star Classic presented by Spotlight 29, along with special events, gifts, and more! Click HERE to learn more about securing your seat for next season!

Stay up to date on the latest Firebirds’ news and info by visiting CVFirebirds.com and by following the team on social media @Firebirds.