The Indy Fuel capped off 2024 with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over the Kalamazoo Wings on New Year’s Eve in Kalamazoo. The game remained deadlocked through two periods before the Fuel found the winning edge in the final frame.

The opening period featured a fast-paced start as Indy peppered K-Wings goaltender with shots, though neither side could break through early. At 13:20, Joseph Arntsen of Kalamazoo was called for high-sticking, providing the Fuel their first power play opportunity. Colin Bilek, returning to the lineup, wasted no time capitalizing, burying a goal assisted by Ryan Gagnier and Bryan Lemos to put Indy ahead 1-0.

Kalamazoo responded late in the period. After failing to convert on a power play following Bennett Stockdale’s delay-of-game penalty, the K-Wings tied the game at 18:21 on a goal from Zach Okabe. The first period ended with Indy holding an 11-5 advantage in shots but tied on the scoreboard.

The second period mirrored the first with its intensity but saw the momentum shift toward Kalamazoo early. The K-Wings outshot Indy in the opening minutes and took their first lead at 11:00 when Arntsen redeemed his earlier penalty with a go-ahead goal.

Indy answered back less than four minutes later. Cam Hausinger, the Fuel’s leading scorer, showcased his offensive prowess by netting the equalizer at 14:51, assisted by Kevin Lombardi. Penalties on both sides late in the period prevented either team from taking the lead before the intermission, as the Fuel maintained a 20-16 edge in shots.

The third period brought the decisive moment. After a quiet opening stretch, Kevin Lombardi broke the tie at 8:24 with a clutch goal assisted by Nathan Burke and Thomas Farrell. The K-Wings pulled their goalie in the final minute for an extra skater, but the Fuel defense held firm to secure the 3-2 win.

With the victory, Indy closed out the year on a high note, building momentum as they head into 2025. The Fuel face the same Kalamazoo Wings at the Fishers Event Center Friday,  7pm.