The Firebirds defeated the San Diego Gulls in overtime on Thursday night at Acrisure Arena by the final score of 4-3. Tyson Jugnauth’s first AHL goal, coming inside the final minute of overtime, and Victor Ostman’s 42 saves lifted the Firebirds to their first home victory of the 2025-26 season.
The Firebirds netted two goals in an 11 second span to jump out to an early 2-0 lead. John Hayden put home a feed from Caden Price to make it a 1-0 game at 4:12 of the first period that was quickly followed up by a Logan Morrison goal – set up by Lleyton Roed – for his team-leading fourth of the season. The game was Roed’s first appearance with the Firebirds since April 9th. Matthew Phillips cut Coachella Valley’s lead in half with an unassisted goal at 11:18 of the first period.
The 2-1 lead lasted until the third period when Justin Bailey’s breakaway goal tied the game for San Diego and Yegor Sidorov’s go-ahead strike came just 2:24 later to put the Gulls ahead.
JR Avon ripped a shot over the shoulder of Gulls’ goaltender Calle Clang to pull the Firebirds even. Avon’s first goal with Coachella Valley was assisted by Kaden Hammell and Mitchell Stephens and came with 5:07 left in regulation. The game needed overtime to decide a winner.
Oscar Molgaard was sprung on a 3-on-2 rush into the offensive zone and found Tyson Jugnauth coming down the slot. Jugnauth’s shot hit Clang’s glove then ricocheted off the skate of Matthew Phillips into the back of the net, sealing a 4-3 win for Coachella Valley.
Victor Ostman made 42 saves on 45 shots to pick up his second win of the season as the Firebirds’ record moves to 3-3-1-0 to begin the 2025-26 season.
Coachella Valley finished game 0-for-1 on the powerplay and 2-for-2 on the penalty kill. The Firebirds were outshot by the Gulls 45-22.
Click HERE to view the game’s full box score.
The Firebirds continue their homestand for Dia De Los Muertos Night, presented by Verizon, this Saturday, November 1st. Get to the game early and get a Los Firebirds poncho, enjoy theme night celebrations, food and drink specials, specialty jerseys, and more! Puck drop is set for 6pm PT. Click HERE to get your tickets now!
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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