Firebirds Clinch With 6-2 Game 3 Win Over Condors

A three-goal second period with a goaltending rebound powered the turnaround.

Overview

Coachella Valley advanced to the Pacific Division semifinals in the AHL Calder Cup Playoffs and now faces the Ontario Reign after a 6-2 series clincher.
In Game 3, a three-goal burst early in the second period, featuring a power-play strike by J.R. Avon, a goal from AHL All-Star Jagger Firkus, and the winner from Jacob Melanson, put the Firebirds in control.
Goalie Nikke Kokko answered a rough Game 2 with 31 saves on 33 shots for a .939 save percentage in the decisive win.
The series flipped at home at Acrisure Arena, where Oscar Fisker-Mølgaard’s late Game 2 goal rescued a 5-4 win and forced the decider.
Special teams shaped momentum across the series, as Coachella Valley converted key power plays while Bakersfield struck on the man advantage through Quinn Hutson and Alec Regula.