On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, the San Jose Barracuda secured a narrow 4-3 victory over the San Diego Gulls in a closely contested hockey matchup. The game, played in San Diego, was decided by a shootout, with San Jose’s Kasper Halttunen scoring the decisive goal to clinch the win.
Early Lead for the San Diego Gulls
The San Diego Gulls started the match with strong momentum, taking an early lead just two minutes into the game when Roland McKeown scored. San Diego extended their advantage to 2-0 late in the first period thanks to a goal from Justin Bailey. The Gulls appeared in control heading into the second period.
San Jose Barracuda Fight Back to Level the Score
The Barracuda responded quickly in the second period. Jimmy Huntington cut the deficit to 2-1 early on, followed by Oliver Wahlstrom’s goal that tied the game 2-2 before the period ended. The match remained tightly balanced, with both teams vying for control.
Lead Changes and Dramatic Equalizer
San Jose’s Luca Cagnoni pushed the Barracuda ahead with a goal in the third period, making it 3-2. But the Gulls refused to relinquish the lead, and Ryan Carpenter scored an equalizer with only five seconds left in regulation, bringing the score to 3-3 and forcing overtime.
Shootout Decides the Winner
The game remained tied through the overtime period, sending the teams to a shootout. Kasper Halttunen emerged as the hero for San Jose by scoring the decisive penalty shot, securing the Barracuda’s 4-3 victory over the Gulls.
Upcoming Schedules for Both Teams
Both teams will return to action on Saturday, February 21, 2026. The San Diego Gulls will face the Icehogs at 7 p.m. CST, while the San Jose Barracuda will play against the Wranglers at 8 p.m. CST.
