The Indy Fuel made a strong statement in their first-ever regular season clash with the Bloomington Bison, securing a 2-0 victory Saturday night at Grossinger Motors Arena. The game, marked by stellar goaltending and tight defensive play, saw the Fuel dominate offensively while keeping the Bison off the scoreboard.

A Battle of Penalties and Missed Opportunities

The opening two periods were a grind, with both teams trading penalties but failing to convert on power-play opportunities. Indy’s Colin Bilek took the first penalty of the night at 7:02 of the first period for interference, but the Fuel penalty-kill unit set the tone early by shutting it down. Bloomington’s Gavin Gould followed with a slashing penalty at 11:05, but the Bison responded in kind with a penalty kill of their own.

Despite outshooting the Bison 9-4 in the first period and 20-11 by the end of the second, the Fuel struggled to find the back of the net as Bloomington goaltender Sinclair stood tall, keeping his team in the game.

Fireworks in the Third

The breakthrough finally came in the third period after tempers flared. A chaotic sequence at 8:14 saw penalties assessed to both teams, including a double minor for roughing against Indy’s Cam Hausinger. The tensions seemed to ignite the Fuel’s offense. Just 38 seconds after play resumed, Nathan Burke broke the deadlock, scoring off assists from Bryan Lemos and Andrew Bellant.

Bloomington continued to push, earning a power play at 10:21 after Jalen Luypen was sent to the box for roughing. However, the Fuel penalty-kill unit again stood firm.

Luypen redeemed himself minutes later, doubling Indy’s lead with a goal at 14:03. Kyle Maksimovich and Colin Bilek provided the assists on the insurance tally.

Closing the Door

With time winding down, Bloomington pulled their goaltender in a last-ditch effort to mount a comeback. Despite the added attacker, the Fuel’s defense held strong, and several close attempts at an empty net by Indy went wide.

Goaltending and defense were a key, stopping all 22 shots faced, while the Fuel outshot the Bison 29-22.

Looking Ahead

The victory gives the Fuel early momentum in their season and marks a successful introduction to this budding rivalry. The Bison, still finding their footing in their inaugural season, will look to regroup as they seek their first victory.