Systems and methods are provided for operation of fuel injectors within an applied-ignition, direct-injection internal combustion engine. In one example, a needle of a fuel injector is moved from a retracted position to an extended position relative to a plurality of injection holes of a nozzle of the fuel injector, with at least one injection hole being separated from a fuel supply system earlierthan each other injection hole. In a partially retracted position, fuel flow along a first side of the needle is decreased relative to fuel flow along a second side of the needle.