FIREBIRDS USE SECOND PERIOD SURGE TO DEFEAT BARRACUDA, 6-3

Coachella Valley Firebirds vs. San Jose Barracuda 10.22.25

Coachella Valley Scores Three Goals in a 3:42 Span to Earn First Win of the Season

The Firebirds defeated the San Jose Barracuda on Wednesday at Tech CU Arena the final score of 6- 3. Coachella Valley scored three goals in a 3:42 span in the second period to help propel the team to their first win of the season.

The Firebirds cashed in on the powerplay halfway through the first period to take the lead on Oscar Molgaard’s first goal of the season. Jagger Firkus found Logan Morrison in front of the net, who then fed Molgaard at the top of the right circle at 10:29.

San Jose tied the game on a goal from Anthony Vincent 4:33 into the second period and then took their first lead of the game at 8:56 thanks to a Lucas Carlsson strike. Kasper Halttunen scored on the powerplay at 10:51 to extend the Barracuda’s advantage to 3-1.

Coachella Valley reset and responded with three goals in a span of 3:42. Logan Morrison netted his first goal of the year with a rip from between the circles at 11:42 with the assists belonging to David Goyette and Jagger Firkus. Mitchell Stephens tied the game at 14:24 after Jacob Melanson won a battle in the corner and moved the puck to J.R. Avon before passing it to Stephens at the top of the right circle.

Jagger Firkus regained the lead for Coachella Valley with an unassisted goal just one minute after Stephens’ goal. Firkus’ goal was his first of the season and his second point of the game.

The Firebirds added some insurance in the third period as defenseman Kaden Hammell registered his first AHL goal at 10:28. Hammell drove to the net and put the puck five-hole through goaltender Jakub Skarek. Logan Morrison sealed the victory with an empty net goal, his second tally of the game, with 44 seconds remaining.

Coachella Valley finished game 1-for-7 on the powerplay and 4-for-5 on the penalty kill. The Firebirds outshot the Barracuda 34-27. Goaltender Nikke Kokko made 24 saves on 27 shots in the victory that improves the team’s record to 1-2-1-0 to begin the 2025-26 season.

Click HERE to view the game’s full box score.

The Firebirds continue their road trip on Friday, October 24th as they head to Calgary to battle the Wranglers in a two-game set. Puck drop for game one is for 6 p.m. PT.

Get Your Ticket Plan Today!

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of a special season of events. With ticket packages designed to fit your lifestyle – including full season, half season, 9-game plans, and more – there is something for every fan this season. Join the Firebirds Family and get ready for the return of hockey this October. To learn more about all available 2025-26 ticket packages, click HERE.

Premium Seating at Firebirds’ Games

For the first time in three years, a limited number of seats have been released in our premium clubs, the desert’s most exclusive and sought-after premium experience! This is the spot where the Coachella Valley’s leaders and tastemakers gather to connect, unwind, and enjoy world-class entertainment with family, friends, and clients. Elevate your game day like never before with Firebirds’ Premium Seating! Experience access to VIP amenities and inclusive food options all from the comfort of one of our several club options located throughout Acrisure Arena. Learn more about Premium Seating HERE!

Fan-Centric Gameday Enhancements

For the 2025-26 season, the Firebirds are rolling out a series of fan-first enhancements designed to make the gameday experience more accessible, convenient, and enjoyable. Highlights include advance-purchase parking savings, new Pocket-Friendly Picks food and beverage options, earlier weekday start times, and pregame Happy Hour at The Oasis, and more! Click HERE to learn more.

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