In Loveland, the Coachella Valley Firebirds showcased their defensive prowess with a standout performance from goaltender Victor Ostman, who turned away all 19 shots he faced in a 2-0 victory over the Colorado Eagles. The game-winner came courtesy of forward Carson Rehkopf, who found the back of the net with just 2:30 left on the clock. Jani Nyman sealed the deal with an empty-netter, marking a night where the Eagles struggled to generate offense, managing their lowest shot total of the season.
The game began with both teams unable to capitalize on early power-play opportunities, leading to a scoreless first period. The second period mirrored the first, with goaltenders on both sides standing tall and keeping the scoreboard untouched.
As the clock wound down in the third period, Rehkopf capitalized on a rebound at the left-wing circle, delivering a precise wrister that broke the deadlock and put the Firebirds ahead. Desperate to equalize, the Eagles pulled goalie Trent Miner for an extra attacker, but it was Nyman who took advantage, scoring from the red line to finalize the score at 2-0.
Miner, despite a solid effort with 23 saves, took the loss. The Eagles' special teams had a mixed night, going 0-for-1 on the power play but successfully killing all four penalties.
Fans can catch the Eagles in action again as they face off against the Firebirds on Saturday at Blue Arena. Tickets for the season are available, and more information can be found at ColoradoEagles.com or by contacting (970) 686-SHOT.