The Coachella Valley Firebirds secured a 6-3 win over the Texas Stars on Wednesday night at H-E-B Center, with Jani Nyman scoring two goals for the second consecutive game. This victory completed a sweep of their Texas road trip and improved their season record to 19-12-4-0.
The Firebirds established an early lead in the first period. Ville Ottavainen scored his first goal of the season just under four minutes into the game, assisted by John Hayden. Carson Rehkopf added another goal for Coachella Valley, with assists from Andrei Loshko and Gustav Olofsson. The Stars responded quickly with a powerplay goal from Antonio Strangis.
Nyman increased the Firebirds’ lead to 3-1 late in the second period, assisted by Logan Morrison and Ville Ottavainen. Texas narrowed the gap again less than a minute later with a goal from Luke Krys.
In the third period, Oscar Fisker Molgaard restored a two-goal advantage for Coachella Valley after capitalizing on an unusual bounce off the end wall, with Caden Price and Lleyton Roed assisting. Matthew Seminoff scored for Texas to bring them within one goal again.
A fortunate bounce in the corner led to Nyman’s second goal of the night, providing insurance for Coachella Valley. John Hayden sealed the win with an empty-net goal in the final minute.
Goaltender Jack LaFontaine made 25 saves on 28 shots, earning his first win of the season as Coachella Valley outshot Texas 38-28. The Firebirds were unsuccessful on their only powerplay opportunity but killed one of two penalties.
The three stars of the game were Cameron Hughes (Texas), who had three assists; Ville Ottavainen (Coachella Valley), who recorded both a goal and an assist; and Jani Nyman (Coachella Valley), who scored twice and now has four goals over his last two games.
“The Firebirds wrap up their road trip with a matchup against the San Diego Gulls this Saturday, January 17th.”
Fans interested in attending future games can explore various ticket packages including half season plans, flex options, and nine-game packages. Premium seating is also available for those seeking VIP amenities at Acrisure Arena. Additional enhancements for fans during the 2025-26 season include advance-purchase parking savings, new affordable food choices, earlier weekday start times, and pregame Happy Hour events at The Oasis.
For more information about tickets or premium seating options visit CVFirebirds.com or follow @Firebirds on social media.
