The Indy Fuel defeated the Wheeling Nailers 2-1 in overtime on Wednesday night. Ryan Gagnier netted the game-winner on a breakaway, marking the Fuel’s first home victory against the Nailers this season.
After a scoreless first period that saw the Fuel outshoot Wheeling 10-4, the Nailers struck first in the second period with a goal from Mats Lindgren at 10:40. Indy responded at 17:41 with a tying goal from Cam Hausinger, assisted by Gagnier and Kevin Lombardi. By the end of the second, the Fuel maintained a 19-12 advantage in shots.
The third period was a defensive battle, as neither team capitalized on power-play opportunities. Wheeling closed the gap in shots, and the game became increasingly physical, ending regulation tied 1-1.
In overtime, Wheeling controlled early possession and recorded four shots, but Fuel goaltender Ben Gaudreau turned away each attempt. At 3:28, Gagnier seized an opportunity on a breakaway and scored on Indy’s first shot of the extra frame to secure the win.
The Fuel and Nailers will face off again Friday night for Hockey Talks Night.