January 16, 2025: Thursday fireworks
In a wild home showdown, the Firebirds exploded for five second-period goals en route to a 6–3 victory over the Silver Knights. Logan Morrison opened the scoring just 1:38 into the game, setting the tone for a relentless Coachella Valley attack. The team lit the lamp at will in the middle frame, with Jani Nyman (two goals), Daniel Sprong, Eduard Sale, and Jacob Melanson all cashing in to build a commanding lead. Despite a couple of late markers by Henderson, Coachella Valley never looked back, and Ales Stezka stood tall with a 30-save performance.
January 18, 2025: Goal fest in Colorado
Saturday’s contest at the Eagles’ arena turned into a back-and-forth thriller, but the Firebirds couldn’t quite hold off Colorado’s surge. The teams traded six first-period goals—three each—highlighted by Luke Henman’s early equalizer and Ty Nelson’s go-ahead tally just seconds later. Logan Morrison kept his hot streak alive with another strike, but Colorado pulled ahead in the second period and added insurance in the third. A late goal by Ryan Winterton gave Coachella Valley hope, yet an empty-netter sealed the 6–4 loss.
January 19, 2025: Sunday Showdown
The Firebirds rebounded the next day in style, clawing back from a 2–1 deficit in the final stanza to earn a 4–2 win. Cale Fleury broke the scoreless tie in the second, but Colorado responded with two quick goals to close out the period. Undeterred, Coachella Valley stormed back in the third thanks to a power-play strike by Logan Morrison, a go-ahead dagger from Lleyton Roed, and another late power-play blast by Ty Nelson. Nikke Kokko made 24 saves to help lock down the comeback victory on the road.
State of the Firebirds
Finishing the week at 2–1, Coachella Valley showcased both its high-scoring potential and its resilience. After overwhelming Henderson at home, the Firebirds stumbled in an offensive slugfest against Colorado, only to regroup and secure a gutsy bounce-back win the very next day. With contributions coming from every corner of the lineup—plus continued strong play from newcomers and veterans alike—the Firebirds are poised to keep making noise in the Pacific Division.
Key performers of the week
- Logan Morrison – Scored in all three games (now up to nine goals) and delivered clutch power-play tallies, proving to be the team’s most consistent offensive threat this week.
- Jani Nyman – Racked up two goals in the Henderson blowout and continues to bring size and skill around the net, tallying 15 goals on the year.
- Daniel Sprong – Posted a multi-point outing against Henderson and added assists in both games at Colorado, reinforcing his strong case for an NHL call-up with his dynamic offensive play.