Overview
- Colorado seized Game 3 in Loveland with a 4-1 win that erased Coachella Valley’s early lead and put the Eagles ahead 2-1 in the Pacific Division Final.
- Chase Bradley scored twice, with Gavin Brindley and T.J. Hughes adding goals, after Lleyton Roed opened for the Firebirds with a short-handed strike.
- With Colorado up 2-1 in a best-of-five, Coachella Valley faces elimination in Game 4 at Blue Federal Credit Union Arena in Loveland.
- Firebirds coach Derek Laxdal described Blue FCU Arena as a loud, difficult venue, and GM Troy Bodie emphasized morning ice sessions to help players adjust to Colorado’s altitude.
- The matchup has swung hard both ways after split shutouts in Games 1 and 2, with Coachella’s top scorers up against an Eagles roster built on depth and steady goaltending.