Heartlanders Win Second Straight, Defeat Wings 6-4

Iowa Heartlanders take 3-game series with victory over Kalamazoo Wings

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Iowa Heartlanders defeated the Kalamazoo Wings 6-4 on Saturday at Xtream Arena, winning their second straight game and taking the 3-game series. The Heartlanders scored three goals in the second period and two in the third to overcome an early 1-0 deficit and pull away for the victory.

Why it matters

The Heartlanders' win extends their winning streak to two games and gives them the series victory over the Wings. This is an important result for the Heartlanders as they look to build momentum and climb the standings in the competitive ECHL.

The details

Anthony Firriolo and Thomas Stewart each had a goal and an assist to lead the Heartlanders' offense. Twelve Heartlanders players registered at least one point, with five having multi-point games. Riley Mercer made 31 saves in the win for Iowa. The Heartlanders overcame an early 1-0 deficit, tying the game in the first period before scoring three goals in the second and two more in the third to pull away.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 15, 2026 at Xtream Arena in Coralville, Iowa.
  • The Heartlanders scored three goals in the second period and two in the third to take control of the game.

The players

Anthony Firriolo

A defenseman for the Iowa Heartlanders who had a goal and an assist in the game.

Thomas Stewart

A forward for the Iowa Heartlanders who also had a goal and an assist in the victory.

Riley Mercer

The goaltender for the Iowa Heartlanders who made 31 saves to earn the win.

Ty Young

The goaltender for the Kalamazoo Wings who took the loss, making 25 saves.

Quinn Preston

A forward for the Kalamazoo Wings who scored two goals in the game.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Heartlanders will host the Wichita Thunder on Wednesday, February 18th at 7:00 PM. They will then welcome the Cincinnati Cyclones for a pair of games on Friday, February 20th (Margaritaville Night) and Saturday, February 21st (Cornfed Country Night).

The takeaway

The Heartlanders' victory over the Wings showcases the team's offensive depth, with 12 players registering points and five having multi-point games. This balanced scoring attack, combined with solid goaltending from Riley Mercer, has the Heartlanders well-positioned to continue their winning ways and climb the ECHL standings.