Nikke Kokko Stops Career High 41 Shots in 3-2 OT Win Over San Diego
The Firebirds defeated the San Diego Gulls on Friday night at Acrisure Arena in overtime by the final score of 3-2. Ben Meyers scored the game winning goal 53 seconds into OT and Nikke Kokko made a career high 41 saves in the victory that improves the team’s record to 8-5-2-0.
San Diego scored a pair of powerplay goals in the opening period in a 2:29 span. Yegor Sidorov netted the game’s first goal followed by a Sasha Pastujov strike. The Firebirds were outshot 11-5 in the first.
Nikke Kokko stopped 19 Gulls shots in the second period which allowed his team to pull within one. J.R. Avon shot the puck through Ville Husso on a 2-on-1 rush for his fourth goal of the season. Logan Morrison and Zach Uens earned the assists at 17:19 of the middle frame.
The Firebirds went to the powerplay at 5:51 of the third period following a Pastujov boarding penalty. Logan Morrison tied the game just 15 seconds later, tapping in a rebound from a Carson Rehkopf shot. Ben Meyers picked up the secondary assist on Morrison’s team-leading ninth goal of the season.
For the second straight meeting, the Firebirds and the Gulls needed overtime to settle things. Tyson Jugnauth led the rush into the offensive zone on Coachella Valley’s first possession of OT – Jugnauth dropped the puck to Meyers who ripped a shot past the glove of Husso to earn Coachella Valley the extra point 53 seconds into overtime.
Coachella Valley finished the game 1-for-3 on the powerplay and 2-for-3 on the penalty kill. The Firebirds were outshot by the Gulls 42-27. Nikke Kokko made a career high 41 saves in the victory, surpassing his previous high of 39 which also came against San Diego back on October 10th of this season.
THREE STARS
3.) Nikke Kokko – 41 saves (career high), including 19 saves in the second period. The win improves his record to 5-3-0 on the season.
2.) Logan Morrison – Morrison had a goal and an assist in the victory. By adding two points, Morrison now has 9 points (5 goals, 4 assists) over his last 7 games.
1.) Ben Meyers – Meyers’ overtime winner sealed the victory for Coachella Valley just 53 seconds into the extra session and also had the primary assist on the Logan Morrison game-tying goal. Meyers now has 5 points (3 goals, 2 assists) in 5 games with the Firebirds this season.
Click HERE to view the game’s full box score.
Coachella Valley concludes their homestand this Sunday, November 23rd at 2 p.m. PT as they host the Calgary Wranglers. Head to Acrisure Arena early for Happy Hour at the Oasis (90 mins before puck drop). It’s a Sunday Funday and the Firebirds will be wearing their Red Alert Jerseys! 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.
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