The Coachella Valley Firebirds defeated the San Jose Barracuda by a score of 4-1 on Mar. 29 at Acrisure Arena, marking their fifth straight victory. Mitchell Stephens, J.R. Avon, Jakov Novak, and Lleyton Roed each scored goals in the game, while Victor Ostman made 36 saves to secure the win.
This victory continues a strong run for the Firebirds, who have now won nine of their last ten games and moved into fourth place in the Pacific Division. The team’s record improved to 37-21-5-0 for the season. The result is part of ongoing efforts by the Firebirds to bring professional hockey to the Coachella Valley region, according to the official website.
Stephens opened scoring with a shorthanded goal in the first period before San Jose tied it up in the second. Avon restored Coachella Valley’s lead later that period with his ninth goal of the year. Novak extended their advantage early in the third period with his fourth goal this season, and Roed capped off scoring with an empty netter just five seconds before regulation ended.
Ostman was named first star after making key saves throughout, including stopping a penalty shot in the third period for his sixteenth win this season. Avon was recognized as second star for notching what proved to be the game-winning goal; Novak was third star after increasing Coachella Valley’s lead midway through the final frame.
Sunday’s match also saw Eduard Sale reach his milestone 100th American Hockey League game and Jackson Berezowski earn his first AHL point with an assist on Novak’s goal. The Firebirds are set to conclude their homestand on Sunday, April 1 against Ontario Reign at Acrisure Arena.
The Firebirds serve as an affiliate of National Hockey League’s Seattle Kraken according to their official website. In addition to success on ice—including deep playoff runs and division titles according to team records—the organization builds community engagement through fan events and initiatives as reported by its official site. Their outreach includes youth hockey development programs and partnerships supporting local families via its foundation according to team information.
