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Coachella Valley Firebirds recap: December 10-16

Dec 12 - Barracuda 4, Firebirds 3 (SO)

Dec 14 - Firebirds 3, Wranglers 1

Dec 15 - Firebirds 4, Wranglers 2

ByNik Davis|
Coachella Valley forward Jani Nyman skates away after finding the back of the net during the second period of their game at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, Calif., Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024.
Coachella Valley forward Jani Nyman skates away after finding the back of the net during the second period of their game at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, Calif., Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024. | Andy Abeyta/The Desert Sun / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Firebirds faced a challenging but rewarding week, showcasing resilience in three intense matchups against strong AHL opponents. With standout performances and a never-quit attitude, Coachella Valley continues to build momentum as the season progresses.

December 12, 2024: Firebirds edged in shootout loss to Barracuda, 4-3

The Firebirds rallied from a 2-0 deficit to force overtime but fell in a shootout against the San Jose Barracuda. Jani Nyman and Jagger Firkus led the comeback with second-period power-play goals, while Brandon Biro briefly gave Coachella Valley the lead in the third. San Jose equalized late, and Danil Gushchin’s shootout goal sealed the win. Ales Stezka was a standout in net, making an incredible 50 saves.

December 14, 2024: Firebirds rebound with decisive win over Wranglers, 3-1

Coachella Valley struck quickly, with Ben Meyers scoring just 31 seconds into the game. John Hayden added a shorthanded goal, and Jani Nyman continued his scoring streak to secure a 3-1 win against the Calgary Wranglers. Ales Stezka’s steady goaltending anchored the effort, turning aside 33 of 34 shots.

December 15, 2024: Firebirds cap the week with 4-2 win over Wranglers

The Firebirds closed the week with a dominant performance in a 4-2 victory over Calgary. Ben Meyers delivered again with the opening goal, while Tucker Robertson and Nyman added to the tally. John Hayden scored a late empty-netter to seal the win. Nikke Kokko impressed in net, stopping 31 shots to secure his second AHL win.

Key performances

  • Jani Nyman: The Finnish forward excelled with three goals, consistently driving the Firebirds’ offense.
  • Ben Meyers: Meyers was a key contributor with two goals and one assist, including clutch opening tallies in both Calgary matchups.
  • Ales Stezka: Stezka was sensational in net, posting a .954 save percentage across two starts and keeping the Firebirds competitive in tight games.

The Firebirds showcased their depth and determination this week, continuing to climb in the Pacific Division standings.

Schedule