Meyers Nets Goal with Four Minutes Left in Regulation to Sweep Weekend Series Against Abbotsford

The Firebirds defeated the Abbotsford Canucks on Sunday at Rogers Forum by the final score of 2-1. J.R Avon tied the game for Coachella Valley with a shorthanded goal and Ben Meyers struck with 4:03 left in the third period to give the Firebirds their third straight victory. 

Following a scoreless first period, the Canucks opened the scoring at 3:09 of the second period. Ben Berard swatted a loose puck through Victor Ostman to put Abbotsford on the board. The Firebirds went to the penalty kill as Jagger Firkus was called for tripping, putting Coachella Valley down a skater. Jacob Melanson stole the puck from his own blue line and started a 2-on-1 rush. Melanson fed J.R. Avon to tie the game. The goal was Avon’s sixth of the season and the third shorthanded goal the Firebirds’ have netted this year. 

With the clock winding down in the third period, John Hayden pushed the puck up ice while taking a hit and Jacob Melanson moved into the offensive zone. Melanson found Ben Meyers at the top of the circle, who fired a shot past Aku Koskenvuo to put Coachella Valley on top with 4:03 left in regulation. The goal was Meyers’ ninth of the season and extended his point streak to nine straight games.

The Firebirds held on for the 2-1 victory, improving the team’s record to 12-6-3-0 on the season.

Coachella Valley finished the game 0-for-4 on the powerplay and 3-for-3 on the penalty kill. The Firebirds outshot the Canucks 27-26. Victor Ostman made 25 saves to secure his fourth win of the year.

THREE STARS:

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

The Firebirds continue their Canadian road trip this Tuesday, December 9th as they head to Calgary to face the Wranglers. Puck drop is 6 p.m. PT. Coachella Valley returns home on Wednesday, December 17th to host the San Jose Barracuda. Head to Acrisure Arena early for Happy Hour at the Oasis (90 mins before puck drop). Game time is at 6:30 p.m. 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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