Melanson Scores Thrice in Coachella Valley’s 5-2 Win Over Abbotsford
The Firebirds defeated the Abbotsford Canucks on Sunday at Acrisure Arena by the final score of 5-2. Jacob Melanson netted three goals, and Jagger Firkus extended his point streak to six straight games in the victory that improves the Firebirds’ record to 7-5-2-0.
After falling behind 1-0 early in the first period, Jacob Melanson capitalized on a powerplay by wiring a shot past goaltender Aku Koskenvuo for his fourth of the season. Melanson’s goal was assisted by Oscar Molgaard and Ty Nelson at 14:16. Coachella Valley took the lead at 18:25 as J.R. Avon pushed the puck to the front of the net for Logan Morrison. Morrison waited out the play to find Jagger Firkus in front of an open net for his eighth goal of the season. The goal was Firkus’ fourth over his last two games, putting him in the league lead in points with 18.
The Firebirds tacked on two more goals in the second period. Tyson Jugnauth beat Koskenvuo from the left circle to make it 3-1 with his second goal of the season. Ben Meyers, in his first game back from Seattle, picked up the helper along with Molgaard – his second of the game at 8:05. At 17:33, defenseman Zach Uens set up Mitchell Stephens at the near boards. Stephens fired the puck off the stick of Melanson for his second of the game to put the Firebirds up 4-1.
Abbotsford netted a late powerplay goal to pull back within two late in the third period, but Jacob Melanson took advantage of an empty net and recorded his first professional hat trick to seal a 5-2 win for Coachella Valley.
Goaltender Victor Ostman earned his third win of the season, stopping 19 of 20 Abbotsford shots. Ostman also recorded an assist on Melanson’s empty net tally. This was the first time in franchise history that the Firebirds recorded hat tricks in back-to-back games.
Coachella Valley finished the game 1-for-2 on the powerplay and 2-for-3 on the penalty kill. The Firebirds outshot the Canucks 28-20.
Click HERE to view the game’s full box score.
Coachella Valley continues their homestand this Friday, November 21st at 7 p.m. PT as they host the San Diego Gulls. Head to Acrisure Arena early for Happy Hour at the Oasis (90 mins before puck drop). Get tickets HERE!
Fans are encouraged to secure $20 parking by purchasing in advance through the ParkWhiz app. Parking rates will increase on the day of the game.
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.
FIREBIRDS TICKET OPTIONS
