Thunderbolts Defeat Mayhem in Macon

Evansville team wins first of two games against Macon this weekend

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Evansville Thunderbolts defeated the Macon Mayhem 3-1 in their Friday night matchup. After Macon tied the game in the second period, the Thunderbolts quickly regained the lead and added an insurance goal to secure the victory. Evansville goaltender Kristian Stead made 22 saves in the win, which moves the Thunderbolts back into fourth place in the league standings.

Why it matters

This was an important win for the Thunderbolts as they look to solidify their playoff positioning in the competitive league. The Mayhem have been a tough opponent for Evansville this season, so this victory gives the Thunderbolts momentum heading into the rematch on Saturday.

The details

The Thunderbolts took an early 1-0 lead in the first period on a goal by Isaac Chapman, but Macon tied it up in the second. Evansville responded quickly, with Myles Abbate scoring the game-winning goal just 31 seconds after Macon's tying goal. Chapman added his second goal of the night late in the second period to give Evansville a 3-1 lead, which they would hold onto through the third period.

  • The Thunderbolts took a 1-0 lead at 15:18 of the first period.
  • Macon tied the game at 1-1 at 13:47 of the second period.
  • Myles Abbate scored the game-winning goal for Evansville just 31 seconds after Macon's tying goal, at 14:18 of the second period.
  • Isaac Chapman scored his second goal of the night with less than one second remaining in the second period to make it 3-1 Evansville.

The players

Isaac Chapman

Scored two goals for the Thunderbolts in the win.

Myles Abbate

Scored the game-winning goal for Evansville in the second period.

Kristian Stead

Evansville's goaltender, made 22 saves in the victory.

Michael Herrera

Scored Macon's lone goal in the game.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This was a big win for us as we look to climb the standings. The guys really stepped up and responded well after Macon tied it up.”

— Evansville Head Coach

What’s next

The Thunderbolts and Mayhem will meet again on Saturday, February 7th in Macon, with the Mayhem currently leading the regular season series 2-1.

The takeaway

The Thunderbolts showed their resilience by quickly regaining the lead after Macon tied the game, ultimately securing an important road victory that moves them back into playoff position in the league standings.