Firebirds Hang On To Take 1-0 Series Lead Over Reign

May 16, 2024 - American Hockey League (AHL)
Coachella Valley Firebirds News Release

The Coachella Valley Firebirds defeated the Ontario Reign on Wednesday at Acrisure Arena by the final score of 3-2. Jimmy Schuldt, Devin Shore, and Max McCormick each scored in the victory that gave the Firebirds a 1-0 lead in the best-of-five series.

The Reign scored the game's first goal as Andre Lee took a quick shot that beat Chris Driedger over the shoulder. The Firebirds responded with a goal from Max McCormick at 14:37 as he put the puck towards the net, pinballing in front and ricocheting past Erik Portillo to even the score. Connor Carrick took a wrist shot from the right circle that deflected off Devin Shore into the cage to put Coachella Valley on top just 1:02 later. The goal was Shore's fourth of the playoffs.

Jimmy Schuldt extended the Firebirds' lead eight minutes into the second period. Logan Morrison and Jacob Melanson worked off a faceoff to grab the puck for Schuldt for his first of the playoffs.

Ontario pulled within one goal as they struck on a powerplay early in the third period on a Samuel Fagemo strike. Coachella Valley was outshot 14-4 in the third but held on to win 3-2.

The Firebirds were held to just 15 shots in the victory, the lowest number of shots on goal in a game in franchise history (regular season and playoffs). Chris Driedger made 29 saves pick up his fourth straight win.

The Firebirds' powerplay finished the game 0-for-2 and the penalty kill went 2-for-3.

For the game's full box score, click HERE.

GAME TWO THIS FRIDAY!

The Firebirds and the Reign rematch this Friday, May 17th for game two at 7pm. Visit Ticketmaster to get your tickets before it's too late!

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American Hockey League Stories from May 16, 2024

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• Kasper's Three-Point Night Pushes Griffins Past Admirals in Game 1 - Grand Rapids Griffins
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• Firebirds Top Reign - Ontario Reign
• Firebirds Hang On To Take 1-0 Series Lead Over Reign - Coachella Valley Firebirds

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