ISTS Footy Pools for 2026 - Round 13 

Just 8 matches to tip this week as the Giants and Tigers had a bye.

This was the 2nd of 5 rounds which have byes.  So, the ladder will continue to be hard to read as different teams have played a different number of matches, until the end of round 16.

Two and arguably Three upsets for Round 13!

The Doggies stitching up the Hawkers was not a popular choice with us punters.   Just 6% picked this one making it a big upset.  Second on the list is Brisbane finding form and beating the Suns at Carrara which was only tipped by 24% of us.   And you could make a case for Port Adelaide hanging on to win agains West Coast at Optus Stadium in the west although 37% of us managed to tips that.

New Injury Concerns

• Callum Ah Chee (Adelaide) – Hamstring
  Ah Chee was having an excellent game in Adelaide’s one-point win over Geelong, including an important role limiting Tom Stewart’s influence, before leaving in the third quarter with a hamstring injury. Hamstrings often bring multi-week concerns depending on severity.
   
• Jordon Butts (Adelaide) – Calf
  Another concern for the Crows from the same match. Butts was sidelined with a calf issue late in the game.
   
• Reuben Ginbey (West Coast) – Quad
  One of the bigger blows of the round. Ginbey, enjoying an All-Australian calibre season, injured his quad chasing Mitch Georgiades against Port Adelaide and could be facing time out.
   
• Tom McCartin (Sydney) – Concussion
  McCartin was ruled out after a heavy collision against St Kilda. Given concussion protocols, he will miss at least the immediate short term.
   
• Justin McInerney (Sydney) – Hamstring tightness
  Subbed out at half-time after appearing to tweak the hamstring. Sydney will assess whether it is a strain or precautionary.
   
• Lachie Weller (Gold Coast) – Hamstring
  Left the QClash defeat to Brisbane with a hamstring issue.
   
• Will Graham (Gold Coast) – Hamstring
  Added to the Suns’ injury concerns in the same game.
   
• Lachie McNeil (Western Bulldogs) – Concussion
  Ruled out early in the Bulldogs’ comeback win over Hawthorn.
   
• Riley Hardeman (North Melbourne) – Concussion
  Left the heavy loss to Fremantle before half-time.

So with 3 out of 8 upsets - maybe a few people got 7 right?   Let's all look together!

ISTS AFL Pools 2026 - Round 13 Results for Tipsters

Yep, this week, you needed to get 7 correct for the round. There were 5 winners this week each earning $13.30.

Congratulations to Karen Ayles, Vaneet Dhiman, Anthony McAvaney, David Jones and Simon (say hi to your sister soon!) Holt.

This week's ladder is more spread out. All own their own at the top of the ladder, we have Gary Wood on 84 points. He is closely followed by Catherine Nairn on 83 points. Then a bunch of Chris Cox, Grant (wtf?) Williams and Ben (double wtf!) Stevens on 82 points. Slightly more crowded are Darren Garbin, Bernie Hoffmann, David Shaw, Randall Kiesewetter and Nicole King on 81 points. Ever hopeful and dreaming are the rent-a-crowd of Tristan Bibbo, Kathy Lange, Anthony McAvaney, Leonie Challans, Amy Challans, Bayden Smith, Anthony Beck, Juris Wulfius, Ian Mills, Vicki Allen and Ian Duncan on 80 points. Tell 'em their dreamin' are Andy Duncan, David Jones, Garth Challans, Justin King, Mary Taylor, Dale Grigg and Melissa Williams on 79 points.

This week's big movers and shakers begins with Anthony McAvaney up 22, David Jones up 20, Darren Garbin up 16, Vaneet Dhiman up 15, Dominic Marafioti up 13, Karen Ayles, Ed Jacobs, Leonie Challans and Simon Holt up 12, Karen Hickman up 11, Randall Kiesewetter up 9, David Shaw, Karen Teague and Bernie Hoffmann up 8, Kathy Lange, Si Michie and Chris Sleeman up 7, Peter Kiley, Brett Douglas, Ken Sleeman and James Lipsham up 6, Vicki Allen up 5.

The current 33rd last place holder is Kristy Johns who fell 6 places. Last week it was Nick Leidig who fell 1 spot.

This week there were 27 distinct tips. 3 more than last week with an extra match to tip.

The average total score is 75.1 and the average score this round was 4.7 up 0.3 on last week which is not so good.

Adelaide Crows – stayed 8th on the ladder after a thrilling win holding on over the Catters who had 4 more scoring shots (5 of which we behinds - go figure).  It has been a long time since Adelaide have beaten the Catters and was one for the ages!    Next week the Crowies travel to Melbounre to take on the Dogs at Marvel Stadium on another Thursday night match at 7pm.  A must winf or the Crows if the want to jump into the tops 6.

Port Adelaide – up to 15th on the ladder with a nail biting win over the Eagles in the West.   Next week the Power host 2nd placed on the ladder, Sydney Swans at home on Saturday night at 7:05pm.  A real challenge and test.

Next week just 4 teams have the Bye in the Pies, Blues, Hawks and Dockers.  So just 7 to tip for.

Rocky reporting for the ISTS AFL Pools - 2026

ISTS Footy Pools for 2026 - Round 12 

This was the first of 5 rounds which have byes for 4, 2, 4, 4 and 4 teams successively.  So the laddder might be a bit hard to read as different teams have played a different number of matches, until the end of round 16.

Two upsete for Round 12!

So it should have been a lot easier than last week - right?  Half the number of upsets.  Just 3% picked the Blues over the Cats.  Carlton notched up their 3rd win in a row!  Was Voss really that bad as a coach?  Or have the cattle been stung into action?   From our tipsters point of view 3 out of 4 of us got on the Demons band wagon but the Giants sorted them out in Alice Springs!

New Injury Concerns

• Sam Flanders suffered what appeared to be a serious Achilles injury against Hawthorn. He was assisted from the field and did not return, with fears he could face a lengthy stint on the sidelines.
   
• Jamie Elliott suffered a suspected serious knee injury late in Collingwood's loss to the Western Bulldogs after landing awkwardly in a marking contest. He was stretchered from the ground, making it one of the most concerning injuries of the round.
   
• Darcy Moore again battled soft-tissue problems, leaving his game with a hamstring issue. It continues an interrupted season for the Magpies captain.
   
• Keidean Coleman was ruled out early against Fremantle with a hamstring injury, adding to Brisbane's growing list of unavailable defenders.Believe.

So with just the 2 out of 7 upsets - surely a few people got all 7 right?   Let's all look together!

ISTS AFL Pools 2026 - Round 12 Results for Tipsters

Yep, you really had to get all 7 correct for the round. There was just the one lucky winner this week earning $66.50.

BIG Congratulations to Bryanne Smith.

This week's ladder is genetically modified. All own their own at the top of the ladder, we have Gary Wood on 79 points. Then he is follwoed closely by  Chris (Go Bluebaggers) Cox and Catherine Nairn on 78 points. Somehow we have two turkeys and a swan in Grant (Oh Canada) Williams, Ben (show my your Q points) Stevens and Nicole King on 77 points. A ccrowd mensues with Tristan Bibbo, Andy Duncan, Amy Challans, Juris Wulfius, Anthony Beck, Justin King, Ian Mills, Bayden Smith, Bernie Hoffmann, David Shaw, Ian Duncan and Randall Kiesewetter on 76 points. Still dreaming are Kathy Lange, Tracey Goode, Garth Challans, Darren Garbin, Dale Grigg, Mary Taylor and Vicki Allen on 75 points.

This week's big movers and shakers begins with Lisa Holloway up 15, Juris Wulfius up 13, Nicole King up 12, Ed Jacobs up 10, Dominic Marafioti and Sam Cooper up 9, Anthony McAvaney, Patricia Coulthard, Brian Simpson and David Jones up 8, John Boland, Kirsty Rogerson and Jason Allsopp up 7, Alan Brideson and Nick Leidig up 6, Dale Grigg, Jenny Butler and Lisa Morgan up 5, Craig Jones, Anna Parente, Heather Mander, Justin Faggotter, David Cranefield and John Whittaker up 4. 

The current 33rd last place holder is Nick Leidig who rose 6 places. Last week it was Lisa Holloway who rose 15 spots.

This week there were 24 distinct tips just one more than last week but 2 less games to pick ?   Must have been tricky.

The average total score is 70.4 and the average score this round was 4.4.

Adelaide Crows – 8th on the ladder after not playing in their Bye round.  Next week the Crows host the Cats who will be stinging mad after getting pipped by the Blues by a kick.   It is a Thursday night match at AO so the crowd might be down a bit as Adelaideans probably have to work on Friday..

Port Adelaide – 16th on the ladder with the Bye round dropping them a bit.  Next week they "Go West..." to face the Eagles on Saturday night at Optus Stadium at 7:45pm Adelaide time.  It will be tough as West Coast are on a high especially on their home dung hill.

Next week just two teams have the Bye in the Giants and Tigers, so we have 8 matches to tip!

Going from 2 to 6 is a cryptic genetic possibility!  Triple up!

Rocky reporting for the ISTS AFL Pools - 2026

Results for 2026 ISTS Footy Pools - Round 11

This weeks commentary started by Rocky and due to his Lion\'s commitments, finished by Peter. So will notice a change in style if you work your way through the games. Ive decided to go ott with bullet points in my summary.

A really big move this week with Grant Williams up 19 positions into 3rd place. At this time of the season, that will set him up for a significant run at the top prize. Well done Grant.

A couple of crazy results this week:

• The Bombers only being able to kick 7 goals against a completely undermined Richmond.
• Gold Coast collapsing against North who were hammered by the Crows last week. Port went in as favorites but couldnt go with Carlton. Did the trying conditions in Darwin last week contribute to those results. Ollie Wines said he had never played in such tough conditions and he only had 5 possessions against Carlton. He had 45% time on ground and vitually no pressure acts.
• GWS crushing the Lions after they lost to West Coast last week. How did that happen? Lions have an amazing mid-field with Neale, Ashcroft, Dunkley etc but they got hammered. Are Brisbane just waiting for finals to start?

ISTS Footy Pools 2026 - Round 11 Results for tipsters

This weeks winning score is 7.

There were 3 winners this round earning $22.17

Congratulations to:

• Grant Williams
• Kate Adriaans
• Nick Leidig

Well done in a difficult tipping round with only:

• 18% tipping Richmond
• 12% tipping the Kangaroos
• 16% tipping Carlton
• 9% tipping GWS
• 21% the Doggies

The Ladder

• 1st is Gary Wood on 75
• 2nd is Chris Cox, 3rd is Grant Williams, 4th is Catherine Nairn, 5th is Bernie Hoffmann, 6th is Ben Stevens on 73
• 7th is Tristan Bibbo, 8th is Andy Duncan, 9th is Amy Challans, 10th is Bayden Smith on 72
• 11th is Tracey Goode, 12th is Justin King on 71

This rounds significant ladder movements:

• Scott Gage up 22 to position 29
• Grant Williams up 19 to position 3
• Tracey Goode up 16 to position 11
• Nick Leidig up 13 to position 69
• Kate Adriaans up 12 to position 73
• Steven Burnett up 11 to position 30
• Marek Pokorny up 10 to position 42
• Chris Sleeman up 10 to position 38
• Karen Hickman up 9 to position 46
• Tristan Bibbo up 9 to position 7

There were 40 distinct tips this round. This is up by 16 from last round.

The average score is 66.

The average score this round was 4.1 which compares to 5.2 last round. A reflection of some tricky results.

ISTS Footy Pools for 2026 - Round 10 

Still two "interstate" (= Non-Victorian) matches on Friday night!  

Although just the one upset then on Friday night with a portent of more to come.

FOUR upsets for Round 10!

Wow - Reigning Premiers the Lions rolled by Cats!  Picked by just 9%.  Demons defeating the Hawkers was a 6% prediction - our tips looking sad.  The the Blues beat the Bulldogs!  Just 15% there.  Then in the final match of round 10, the Eagles slipped passed the Giants to be predicted by just 17%.

New Injury Concerns

Round 10 brought another heavy injury toll across the AFL, with several big-name players either ruled out during games or facing uncertain recovery timelines heading into the next round.

• Darcy Moore suffered another concussion against Geelong after a heavy collision with Oisin Mullin and was subbed out at half-time. The Magpies skipper is expected to miss at least one match under concussion protocols.
• Oscar Steene hurt his left knee against Sydney and left the field distressed in the third quarter. The injury looked serious and forced a major reshuffle in Collingwood’s ruck setup.
• Harry Edwards endured his third concussion of the season against Melbourne after accidental contact from teammate Elliot Yeo. Given his recent history, the Eagles are likely to take a cautious approach.
• Lachie Weller suffered a hamstring injury against Yartapuulti, while teammate Will Graham was concussed in a heavy collision with Aliir Aliir.
• Dayne Zorko was a late withdrawal against Geelong due to management concerns, though it was not reported as a major injury.
• Tom Stewart finished the win over Brisbane with a corked calf after another dominant display.
• Bailey Williams injured his left hamstring against Carlton and could miss multiple weeks.
• Campbell Gray strained a hamstring against Euro-Yroke, adding to Richmond’s already severe injury crisis. Sam Cumming also finished sore with a corked quad.
• Tom Brown suffered a forearm injury against Adelaide in Round 9 carryover concerns, further stretching the Tigers’ depth.
• Jamarra Ugle-Hagan was a late withdrawal for Gold Coast’s Darwin clash because of an ankle issue.
• Nick Haynes battled ankle soreness and a bloodied nose during Carlton’s win over the Bulldogs but played on.

Overall, Collingwood and Richmond appear hardest hit, while West Coast and Gold Coast also have significant concerns coming out of the round.

So now down to business as it is quite likely that not many folks will share the spoils for this week's winnings.  Too many upsets how many defied the odds of picking a majoriyty of upsets without missing the obvious ones? As I like to say, let's all look together!

ISTS AFL Pools 2026 - Round 9 Results for Tipsters

Believe it or not, you really had to get 8 correct for the round. There was just the one lucky winner this week earning $66.50.

Congratulations to Kristy Johns. Amazing!

This week's ladder is very busy at the shape end. At the top of the ladder, we now have Chris Cox, Catherine Nairn, Amy Challans and Gary (usual suspect) Wood on 69 points. Closely pursuing are Ben (don't bother me I am flying) Stevens, Bayden Smith, Ian Mills and David Shaw on 68 points. In striking distance are Andy Duncan, Leonie Challans, Garth Challans, Bernie Hoffmann, Anthony Beck, Darren Garbin and Dale Grigg on 67 points. Then we have Tristan Bibbo, Kathy Lange, Juris Wulfius, Justin King, Scott Ainsworth, Mary Taylor, Grant Williams, Vicki Allen, Ian Duncan, Randall Kiesewetter and Nicole King on 66 points.

This week's big movers and shakers begins with Les Shalhoub up 13, David Jones, Craig Jones and Kristy Johns up 10, Mary Taylor, Anthony McAvaney and Tracey Goode up 9, Brett Douglas, Chris Sleeman, Kathy Lange and John Whittaker up 8, Melissa Williams up 7, Ben Stevens, James Lipsham, Jenny Butler and Bayden Smith up 6, Kate Adriaans and Sam Cooper up 5, Nick Leidig, Joanna Sundstrom and Peter Shillingford up 4, Alan Brideson up 3.

The current 33rd last place holder is Ken Sleeman who was there last week!.  Rare skill to stay in that spot I must say.

This week there were 23 distinct tips.  Just 2 more than last week.

The average total score is 61.9 and the average score this round was 5.2. Down 2.5 from last week due to upsets.

Adelaide Crows – 8th on the ladder after a good percentage boost over the Kangas.  Still didn't move up a place.  It is very competitive at this level.  Next week the Crows travel to the cold Tassie isle to take on Hawthorn at the Launceston Stadium.  Hawks will be hungry after losing to the Demons.

Port Adelaide – still 14th on the ladder after a disappointing loss to the Suns in the Top End.  Nest week they host the Blues in Adelaide.  They have changed their coach so maybe the Power can win.  But what if they substitute a temporary coach!   Ouch!

Rocky reporting for the ISTS AFL Pools - 2026

ISTS Footy Pools for 2026 - Round 9 

Still two matches on Friday night!   Seems the AFL want more FNF with Lions taking on the Blues at the Gabba and the Power hosting the Dogs at AO maybe because you don't get a FNF to yourselves unless it is two Melbourne teams playing!   Interesting theory that and it seems to hold true for next week with the Suns "hosting" the Power in Darwin and the Swans hosting the Pies at the SCG!    .The theory falls apart a bit in round 11 with Tigers hosting Bombers at Marvel on Friday along with Dockers vs Sainters in the West.   So modified theory is if the match is "good" enough to be held at the MCG, then there would only be one FNF match - let's all look together.  (It is true for round 12 -  that's as far as I am looking!)

Just the One upset for Round 9!

Well actually there were probably many 10's of thousands upset at the Power's 2 point loss to the Doggies only predicted by 28% of us.  It was my Lions Club's 40 Anniversary and we celebrated in style and the result upset a few Port supporters there.  Bloody tough to lose two close ones like that in two weeks.  The Doggies jagged a point to break the Tied scores late in the match and then had a shot on goal after the siren but only managed another behind for that 2 point margin.

New Injury Concerns
 

Round 9 of the AFL season produced another worrying injury list, with several clubs sweating on the fitness of key players ahead of important upcoming matches.

For Hawthorn, star defender Tom Barrass suffered a hamstring injury against Fremantle and was ruled out during the second quarter. The Hawks will now await scans, with Barrass having been in All-Australian form.

Collingwood captain Darcy Moore entered concussion protocols after a heavy collision with Geelong tagger Oisin Mullin. Moore was subbed out at half-time in the Magpies’ big loss to Geelong.

At St Kilda, skipper Callum Wilkie hurt his back in a marking contest against Gold Coast Suns and could barely move before being ruled out. The Saints also managed star midfielder Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera before the game.

Western Bulldogs ruckman Tim English suffered another concussion concern after a head clash late against Port Adelaide, while Power defender Miles Bergman injured his toe.

For Melbourne, recruit Brody Mihocek suffered a hamstring injury against Sydney Swans, while young Eagle Harry Edwards sustained his third concussion of the season against the Demons.

Essendon youngster Dyson Sharp injured his shoulder against Greater Western Sydney Giants, and Gold Coast Suns forward/ruck Ethan Read finished Round 9 with a knee concern.

So now down to business as it is quite likely that many folks will share the spoils for this week's winnings and not add all that much to their own haul. Surely a truck load of people got them all right this week?  As I like to say, let's all look together!

ISTS AFL Pools 2026 - Round 9 Results for Tipsters

This week, you certainly did need to get 9 correct for the round. There were just 12 winners this week (considering 28% got the Doggies correct) each earning $5.54.

Congratulations to Tristan Bibbo, Leonie Challans, Garth Challans, Adam Mather, Kristy Johns, Brian Quick, Amy Challans, Bob Ellis, Lisa Morgan, Lynette Duncan, Gary Wood and David Cranefield.

This week's ladder is only a bit modified. At the top of the ladder, we still have Chris Cox, Catherine Nairn and joined by Amy Challans on 64 points. Close on their heels are Gary Wood joining Ian Mills and David Shaw on 63 points. They are followed by the nervous 9 with Andy Duncan, Leonie Challans, Garth Challans, Bernie Hoffmann, Ben Stevens, Bayden Smith, Anthony Beck, Darren Garbin and Dale Grigg on 62 points. Next we have Tristan Bibbo, Juris Wulfius, Justin King, Scott Ainsworth, Grant (Oh Canada) Williams, Vicki Allen, Ian Duncan, Randall Kiesewetter and Nicole King on 61 points.

This week's big movers and shakers begins with Lynette Duncan up 16, Adam Mather and Bob Ellis up 13, David Cranefield up 12, Gary Wood up 10, Tristan Bibbo up 9, Lisa Morgan up 8, Garth Challans and Leonie Challans up 7, Brian Quick up 6, Kristy Johns up 5, Heather Mander, Anthony McAvaney, Simon Holt, Vaneet Dhiman, Karen Teague and Joanna Sundstrom up 4.

The current 33rd last place holder is Ken Sleeman who rose 2 places. Last week it was Anthony McAvaney who rose 4 spots.

This week there were 21 distinct tips, down 9 from last week due to the single upset.

The average total score is 56.7 and the average score this round was 7.7, up 1.5 from last week!

Adelaide Crows – 8th on the ladder after pushing off a determined Tigers outfit in the third term.  Next week, Adelaide host North at AO on Saturday at 12:45pm in a more traditional slot.   The Shinboners cannot be taken lightly and will need to be taken seriously if the Crows are going to win that.

Port Adelaide – 14th on the ladder after another close loss to the Doggies at AO.   Next week they travel to TIO stadium where the Suns have made it a bit of a fortress in having two home matches there in a row.  I wonder if they will stay there!

Coming up in the next 2 to 3 weeks are the State of Origin NRL between the Maroons and Blues,  French Open Tennis from May 24, and of course the World Table Tennis Championships are currently underway in London!

Rocky reporting for the ISTS AFL Pools - 2026

ISTS Footy Pools for 2026 - Round 8 

So - what is happening with the ARC?   The whole review system was called into question on Thursday night and then on Friday, stuff got reviewed that they said would not get reviewed.   And other stuff was not reviewed when it should have been.   It does feel like there is too much cogitation going on and it can seriously slow the game down.  I guess the next mistake the FL will make is using AI!  The whole way that the AFL dealt the Butters comments alleged by the Umpire with the conflict of interest with Sportsbet (albeit the Horsce racing side), was a total debacle.  The mic didn't pick up anything and if you are an Umpire feeling sensitive about your part time Sportsbet conflict - it is not surprising you hear anything like "How was that paid?" as "How much are you being paid?" which could still be innocent in that it would sound to most of us like "How much are they paying you to make those bad decisions!"  The whole club and former coach stood up for Butters so good on them.  Ok - Rant over - now to this round.  Which wasn't so happy for the Power faithful!

Showdown didn't get the Friday night slot to itself.   Shows what the AFL thinks of SA Footy teams!   Apart from Gather Round, where did double header Friday night matches come from?   Lucky to have one traditional Saturday afternoon match now! Rant #2 over.

Two upsets for Round 8!

Hawthorn drew with Collingwood While not a win, Hawthorn Hawks pinching a draw against Collingwood Magpies felt like an upset given Collingwood's efficiency and late control. Hawthorn's inaccuracy kept them behind, but a goal after the siren salvaged an unlikely result.  Predicted by none of us!  Bit early for that panic style of tipping.

Richmond def. West Coast (by 11 points).  The Tigers entered winless and severely undermanned, making their victory over West Coast Eagles a genuine upset. Despite losing Dion Prestia early and carrying a long injury list, Richmond held their nerve in a chaotic, lead-changing contest to secure their first win of 2026.

New Injury Concerns
Round 8 produced a handful of notable injury blows, particularly to experienced and structurally important players:
Taylor Walker (Adelaide) The veteran forward suffered a hamstring injury early in the Showdown against Port Adelaide Power and took no further part. Given his importance to Adelaide’s forward structure, this could be a significant short-term loss.
Dion Prestia (Richmond) In a cruel blow during Richmond Tigers’s win, Prestia injured his calf within minutes of the opening bounce. With Richmond already carrying a heavy injury list, this adds further strain to their midfield depth.
Brody Mihocek (Melbourne)  The high-profile recruit sustained a hamstring injury in the first quarter against Sydney Swans. His early exit disrupted Melbourne’s forward structure and forced a reshuffle that impacted their competitiveness.
James Sicily (Hawthorn) The Hawks captain battled through an ankle injury during the draw with Collingwood Magpies, even moving forward late. While he returned, his condition will be monitored.
Harry Perryman (Collingwood) Suffered a hamstring injury mid-game, a concern given his role as a key defensive matchup player.
Jye Caldwell (Essendon) & Saad El-Hawli Both were injured in the loss to Brisbane Lions, with Caldwell hurting his ankle and El-Hawli sustaining a collarbone injury, further denting Essendon’s midfield and depth.

So now to the meat of the act and how many of us overcame those two upsets to get a perfect score?  As I like to say, let's all look together!

ISTS AFL Pools 2026 - Round 8 Results for Tipsters

This week, you could afford one mistake and get 8 correct for the round. There werestill just 2 winners this week each earning $33.25.

Congratulations to Andy Duncan and Chris Cox. Go SAIT!  They were there before I was!

This week's ladder is shaken!  What a difference a week of tipping makes!  Now at the top of the ladder, we have that Blue supporter (commiserations) Chris Cox and Catherine Nairn on 56 points. Then slightly slipping are Amy Challans, Ian Mills and David Shaw on 55 points. Next we have rising star Andy Duncan, (and some others hanging on) Bernie Hoffmann, Ben Stevens, Bayden Smith, Anthony Beck, Darren Garbin, Scott Ainsworth, Dale Grigg and Gary Wood on 54 points. Still trying hard are Leonie Challans, Garth Challans, Justin King, Juris Wulfius, Mary Taylor, Ian Duncan, Randall Kiesewetter, Nicole King, Grant Williams and Vicki Allen on 53 points.

This week's big movers and shakers begins with Andy Duncan up 12, Adam Mather up 11, Melissa Williams, Peter Kiley and Brian Quick up 9, Sandy Ellis, Brian Simpson, Karen Hickman and Kristy Johns up 8, Vaneet Dhiman, Trudi Bishop, Jenny Quilliam, Jenny Butler and Nicole King up 7, Randall Kiesewetter, Alan Brideson, Grant Wigley, Jason Allsopp, James Lipsham, Bob Ellis, Ian Duncan, Scott Gage, Leonie Challans, Garth Challans, Robert Smith, Brett Douglas and Tristan Bibbo, up 6!

The current 33rd last place holder is Anthony McAvaney who fell 2 places. Last week it was Ken Sleeman who fell 2 spots.

This week there were 30 distinct tips up 3 from last week.

The average total score is 49.1 and the average score this round was 6.2 down 1.0 from last week. 

Adelaide Crows – 11th on the ladder after Cook's miracle last gasp goal to snatch the Showdown win after looking like being over-run.  Next week the Crows (4-4) travel to the MCG for the last match of the round on Sunday to take on the now in-form Tigers!

Port Adelaide – 13th on the ladder after the heart-stopping loss in Showdown 59.  Port Adelaide (3-5) hosts the Doggies at AO in the second Friday night match at 7:40pm.  They are close on the ladder and it should be a cracker.  But if Port can beat Geelong, they should clean up the injury ridden Dogs..

Is the ARC for the high jump?  Friday night has 2 matches again this week so we shouldn't take it too personally.  Maybe bigger crowds on Fridays - that the AFL MO.

Rocky reporting for the ISTS AFL Pools - 2026

ISTS Footy Pools for 2026 - Round 7 

Did you go to a ANZAC Dawn Service?  Not that I am biased or anything but the Hallett Cove Beach service run by my Lions Club with funding from the Marion Council is exception.   It even looks a bit like ANZAC Cove.   About 2,000 people attended and tehre was warm applause at the conclusion.  The same Piper and Bugler have been performing since 2015th (100th year Anniversary when this Dawn Service came into being).   It is well supported by the Army and we even have a catafalque party.

ANZAC Round had a Thursday and Fruday match with 4 matches on ANZAC Day - Saturday!  No longer is ANZAC Day just the prerogative of Collingwood and Essendon!

Just the one Upset for ANZAC Round as well!

The Power came in with just two wins and were widely tipped to lose against an in-form Cats side that had dominated recent meetings and was strongly favoured by most previews. Instead, Jason Horne-Francis (34 disposals, two goals) and Mitch Georgiades (4.6) led Port to a commanding 13.17 (95) to 10.5 (65) win, one of Josh Carr’s best victories as coach. Many tipsters had Geelong by 20+ points, making this the standout shock of the round..

New Injury Concerns
ANZAC Round had its share of Injuries...

The biggest injury concern of the round was Aaron Naughton from the Western Bulldogs after a frightening head-first landing against Sydney.  At the Bulldogs, the injury list remains brutal beyond Naughton, with Sam Darcy (ACL, season-ending), Tim English (knee/medial ligament), Rory Lobb (hamstring), James O’Donnell (hamstring) and Tom Liberatore (concussion) all sidelined.

For Geelong, veteran utility Mark Blicavs suffered a significant left knee injury in the loss to Port Adelaide.

Melbourne also had concern for Jai Culley, who left the Anzac Day Eve win over Richmond with a knee injury after going down in the second quarter.

For Brisbane, defender Noah Answerth suffered concussion in the loss to Melbourne and missed Round 7, while Jarrod Berry was also ruled out with a calf injury.

Richmond also missed Sam Banks (collarbone), Maurice Rioli (hamstring) and Tim Taranto (concussion) from their heavy Round 6 defeat, which continued to affect team balance into Round 7.

Did any of the the 16% that picked the Power get all of the easy ones right as well!?  Let's all look together!

ISTS AFL Pools 2026 - Round 7 Results for Tipsters

You betcha! You absolutely needed to get ALL 9 correct for the round. There were 5 winners this week each earning $13.30.

Congratulations to John Boland, Patricia Coulthard, Tracey Goode, Craig Jones and Jenny Quilliam.

This week's ladder is very interesting. All alone at the top of the ladder, we have Catherine Nairn on 49 points. Then the handful of Amy Challans, Ian Mills, Chris Cox, Dale Grigg and David Shaw on 48 points. Another competitive crowd pursues with Bernie Hoffmann, Ben Stevens, Bayden Smith, Anthony Beck, Darren Garbin, Scott Ainsworth, Juris Wulfius, Gary Wood, Grant Williams and Vicki Allen on 47 points. The we have the plethora of John Boland, Andy Duncan, Malcolm Parsons, Justin King, Leonie Challans, Garth Challans, Si Michie, Mary Taylor, Kirsty Rogerson, Ian Duncan, Randall Kiesewetter, Marek Pokorny, Nicole King and Justin Faggotter on 46 points.

This week's big movers and shakers begins with Jenny Quilliam up 26, John Boland up 22, Craig Jones up 16, Tracey Goode and Patricia Coulthard up 15, Prairie Girl up 12, Emerson Stevens up 10, Randall Kiesewetter, Brian Simpson, Ben Stevens, Bernie Hoffmann and Marek Pokorny up 9, Paul Sherlock and Melissa Williams up 8, Lisa Morgan up 7, Ian Duncan and Si Michie up 6, Nicole King, Justin Faggotter, Peter Kiley, Gary Wood, Malcolm Parsons, Grant Williams, Justin King and Andy Duncan up 5.

The current 33rd last place holder is Ken Sleeman who rose 1 place. Last week it was Brian Simpson who rose 9 spots.

This week there were 27 distinct tips, 6 more than last week.

The average total score is 42.8 and the average score this round was 7.2 down 2.0 from last week.

Port Adelaide – 11th on the ladder after their big win over the Catters.  Port Adelaide (3-4) has the "away" Showdown 59  on Friday 1st May at 7:40pm (SO LATE!) at Adelaide Oval and would have to be favourites for that after knocking over the Cats.

Adelaide Crows – 13th on the ladder after getting a football lesson from the Lions.  Adelaide host Showdown 59 and will have to have a serious form reversal to get anywhere near the Power!

LEST WE FORGET!

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ISTS Footy Pools for 2026 - Round 6 

Round 6 produced just one major upset:

Melbourne def Brisbane – The biggest and only upset of the round came at the MCG, where Melbourne stunned reigning premier Brisbane by two points, 16.8 (104) to 15.12 (102). Only tipped by 6% of us.

New Injury Concerns
Round 6 brought a heavy injury toll across the league, with several major names either sidelined during games or facing significant time out.

Sam Darcy (Western Bulldogs) – The biggest concern of the round. Darcy suffered a suspected ACL injury after his left knee twisted awkwardly without contact against Geelong. He left the field in distress and the early signs were extremely concerning for the young star key forward.

Tom Liberatore (Western Bulldogs) – Returned from a hamstring issue only to be ruled out with concussion against Geelong, adding to the Dogs’ injury crisis.

Rory Lobb and James O’Donnell (Western Bulldogs) – Both key defenders finished the Geelong match early with hamstring injuries, severely depleting the Bulldogs’ backline.

Harry McKay (Carlton) – The Blues spearhead finished with a head injury concern in the close loss to Collingwood and will likely face concussion protocols depending on assessment.

Tim Taranto (Richmond) – Richmond’s acting captain was ruled out with concussion during the heavy loss to North Melbourne, another blow in a tough season for the Tigers.

Sam Banks (Richmond) – Suffered a serious collarbone injury in the opening minutes against North Melbourne after landing awkwardly in a tackle.

Maurice Rioli Jr (Richmond) – Left the same game with a hamstring injury as Richmond’s injury list worsened.

Jarrod Berry (Brisbane) – The Lions midfielder was ruled out during Brisbane’s narrow loss to Melbourne with a calf injury.

Harrison Petty (Melbourne) – Left the game with concussion symptoms after an unusual third-quarter incident and did not return.

Jesse Hogan (GWS) – A late withdrawal before the Sydney Derby due to a quad issue, leaving the Giants without their key forward target

So surely someone picked the upset and got the easy one right!?  Let's all look together!

ISTS AFL Pools 2026 - Round 6 Results for Tipsters

This week, you actually needed to get 9 correct for the round. There were 3 winners this week each earning $22.17.

Congratulations to Peter shillingford, Alice Betteridge and Kathy Lange.

This week's ladder is very reasonably static at the top. At the top of the ladder, we still have Catherine Nairn and Dale Grigg on 41 points. Next we have Juris Wulfius, Amy Challans, Ian Mills, Chris Cox, Christopher Blake, Vicki Allen and David Shaw on 40 points. Then the crowd of Bayden Smith, Anthony Beck, Leonie Challans, Garth Challans, Darren Garbin, Scott Ainsworth, Bernie Hoffmann, Ben Stevens, Kirsty Rogerson, Gary Wood and Grant Williams on 39 points. Still hopeful are the masses of Tristan Bibbo, Kathy Lange, Andy Duncan, Malcolm Parsons, Justin King, Sam Cooper, Brett Douglas, Mary Taylor, Si Michie, Chris Sleeman, Sandy Ellis, Ian Duncan, Lisa Holloway, Nicole King, Justin Faggotter, Randall Kiesewetter, Marek Pokorny and Adam Mather on 38 points.

This week's big movers and shakers begins with Kathy Lange up 32, Peter shillingford and Bruce Thomas up 14, Bob Ellis and Lynette Duncan up 11, Ed Jacobs and Scott Gage up 10, Alice Betteridge up 9, Peter Kiley, Sam Cooper and Michelle Ah Matt up 8, Tristan Bibbo, Justin Faggotter, Lisa Holloway, Malcolm Parsons, Karen Ayles and Andy Duncan up 7, Dominic Marafioti, Gary Wood, Heather Mander, Brett Douglas and Brian Quick up 6.

The current 33rd last place holder is Brian Simpson who rose 3 places. Last week it was Bob Ellis who rose 11 spots.

This week there were 21 distinct tips, 9 fewer than last week reflecting the lack of upsets.

The average total score is 35.7 and the average score this round was 7.4, up 1.4 from last week.

Adelaide Crows – 10th on the ladder after Round 6, Adelaide (3-3) travels to face Brisbane Lions on Sunday April 26 at The Gabba, aiming to build on their dramatic one-point win over St Kilda Football Club.Positioned in 11th on the ladder.  Adelaide take on St Kilda at home on Saturday evening, aiming to build consistency and climb the standings. But the Sainters are looking good at the minute.

Port Adelaide – 12th on the ladder after Round 6, Port Adelaide (2-4) hosts Geelong Cats on Saturday April 25 at 6:05pm at Adelaide Oval, looking to rebound after their narrow three-point loss to Hawthorn Football Club.

Next week is the ANZAC round where we still have 9 matches played from Thursday through to Sunday with 4 matches on ANZAC Day!

Rocky reporting for the ISTS AFL Pools - 2026

ISTS Footy Pools for 2026 - Round 5  GATHER ROUND 

Gather Round once again doubled as a statewide festival, with South Australia hosting a wide range of off-field attractions alongside the matches. Adelaide’s CBD and surrounding regions featured live music, fan zones, food and wine experiences, club activations, and family-friendly entertainment, while regional venues like Barossa Park and Norwood Oval added to the unique, community-driven feel of the round. Events tied into local tourism—particularly in the Barossa—helped create a carnival atmosphere beyond the games themselves.

Across the weekend, total attendance for Gather Round matches was just over 268,000 fans, continuing the event’s strong reputation for drawing large, engaged crowds both at major venues like Adelaide Oval and smaller suburban grounds.

Gather Round produced a few notable upsets, highlighted by lower-ranked or challenged teams knocking off in-form opposition:

• Essendon def. Melbourne – The Bombers snapped a 17-game losing streak with a shock win over the Demons, marking one of the biggest surprises of the round with just 1% of us picking it
• St Kilda def. Port Adelaide – The Saints upset the Power on their home deck, holding off multiple comebacks in tough conditions to secure an important 14-point victory and only predicted by 39% of us.
• Hawthorn def. Western Bulldogs – The Hawks handed the previously unbeaten Bulldogs their first loss of the season in a dominant 40-point win, controlling the game through midfield and clearances. Only slightly an upset as 46% of us predicted thee Hawks' win.

New Injury Concerns

Several big-name players were sidelined or hurt during Gather Round, with a mix of fresh concerns and in-game scares:

• Ed Richards (Western Bulldogs) – The star midfielder suffered another leg injury and was subbed out, a worrying setback given his history of knee issues.
• Dayne Zorko (Brisbane) – The veteran Lion left the field before half-time with a calf injury and is set for scans.
• Stephen Coniglio (GWS) – Concussed after a heavy knock and will miss the upcoming Sydney Derby under protocols.
• Aaron Cadman (GWS) – Also suffered concussion in the same match, ruling him out next week despite an impressive return game.
• Deven Robertson (West Coast) – Limped off with a knee injury in the final quarter against Geelong.

So back to tipping 9 matches for Gather Round with 3 upsets to tip this week!  How did you survive Gather Round?

Let's all look together!

ISTS AFL Pools 2026 - Round 5 GATHER ROUND Results for Tipsters

This week, you needed to get 8 correct for the round. There were 16 winners this week each earning $4.16.

Congratulations to Leonie Challans, Amy Challans, Darren Garbin, Ed Jacobs, Scott Ainsworth, Ian Mills, Juris Wulfius, Justin King, Bernie Hoffmann, David Jones, Garth Challans, Ben Stevens, Malcolm Parsons, Bayden Smith, Anthony Beck and Andy Duncan.

This week's ladder has Gathered Around!  At the top of the ladder, we now have Catherine Nairn and Dale Grigg on 33 points. A large crowd ensues on their heels with Bernie Hoffmann, Ben Stevens, Juris Wulfius, Amy Challans, Ian Mills, Chris Cox, Christopher Blake, Vicki Allen and David Shaw on 32 points. Still remarkably bunched up are David Cranefield, Bayden Smith, Anthony Beck, Leonie Challans, Garth Challans, Darren Garbin, Justin King, Scott Ainsworth, Si Michie, Kirsty Rogerson, Chris Sleeman, Grant Williams, Adam Mather, Gary Wood, Randall Kiesewetter and Marek Pokorny on 31 points.

This week's big movers and shakers begins with Darren Garbin up 38, Leonie Challans and Garth Challans up 36, Scott Ainsworth up 35, Malcolm Parsons up 34, Andy Duncan up 33, Justin King up 29, Bayden Smith and Anthony Beck up 27, Juris Wulfius, Ben Stevens and Amy Challans up 24, Ed Jacobs up 22, James Lipsham up 19, Anthony McAvaney, Ian Mills and Dominic Marafioti up 18, David Jones, Vaneet Dhiman and Bernie Hoffmann up 17, Nicole King up 15, Michelle Ah Matt up 14.

The current 33rd last place holder is Bob Ellis who fell 19 places. Last week it was Andy Duncan who rose 33 spots.

This week there were 30 distinct tips, 1 less than last round reflecting ease of predicting most matches despite having all 9 to tip.

The average total score is 28.3 and the average score this round was 6.0.

Port Adelaide – Currently sitting at 10th on the ladder.  Port Adelaide face the Hawks at Marvel on Saturday late affternoon, looking to rebound after their Gather Round loss.

Adelaide Crows – Positioned in 11th on the ladder.  Adelaide take on St Kilda at home on Saturday evening, aiming to build consistency and climb the standings. But the Sainters are looking good at the minute.

Next week is a normal round where we are back to the traditional home and away format for all 9 matches starting Thursday night as usual and featureing the Blues and Pies!

Rocky reporting for the ISTS AFL Pools - 2026

ISTS Footy Pools for 2026 - Round 4 

Hope you all had a good Easter under the circumstances.   It certainly was a feast of footy matches over 5 big days!  A few sides tried to resurrect themselves and failed (like the Crows in the final term going down to Freo) and others were successful (like the Hawkers rolling over the Cats by the barest margin!). 

Biggest upsets were really just these two

Melbourne def Gold Coast (boilover)

• Gold Coast had been in strong early-season form
• Melbourne produced what was described as an “epic boilover” win

A genuine upset given momentum and form only picked by 4% of us.

Dockers def Crows at Adelaide Oval

Melbourne Football Club vs Gold Coast Suns

• Adelaide had their now predictable slow start
• Freo built a 29 point lead but the Crows edged in front int he final term only to see the win slip away as Dockers steadied.

A home match upset for the Crows and picked by 24% of us.

New Injury Concerns
Collingwood
      Nick Daicos – corked calf (soft tissue), late withdrawal

Western Bulldogs
       Tim English – knee injury during the match
       Arthur Jones – hamstring injury in-game
Both occurred in the win over Essendon and are the Dogs’ main new concerns

Brisbane
    Noah Answerth – concussion (game incident)
    Entered concussion protocols following a knock in Round 4

Port Adelaide
    Ollie Lord – ACL injury (season-ending)
Occurred during the round (SANFL), but still a major new blow to AFL depth

Adelaide (carry-over from game incidents)
    Luke Pedlar – jaw injury after heavy collision
    Required assistance from the field after a late-game incident

North managed to stage a huge comeback to overhaul the Blues to allow the 64% of us who tipped them to be relieved!

Just the 8 matches to tip this week but the AFL ladder now shows all teams having played 4 matches so it is finally a fair comparison of where they sit!

How did you handle the two upsets and did you go for some that didn't come off?   Let's all look together!

ISTS AFL Pools 2026 - Round 4 Results for Tipsters

Believe it or not, you could afford to get just 1 tip wrong.  You needed to get 7 correct for the round. There were just 3 winners this week each earning $22.17.

Congratulations to John Boland, John Whittaker and Karen Hickman.

This week's ladder has thinned out a bit at the top. All own their own at the top of the ladder, we now have the Mesiah, Christopher Blake on 27 points. He is followed by the 4 Diciples in Catherine Nairn, Sam Cooper, Dale Grigg and Marek Pokorny on 26 points. The Alter attendants follow with Tristan Bibbo, Brett Douglas, Chris Cox, Vicki Allen, David Shaw, Randall Kiesewetter and Gary Wood on 25 points. They are followed by the plethora of cheesemakers (bless them!) in John Whittaker, Karen Hickman, David Cranefield, Si Michie, Tracey Goode, Kirsty Rogerson, Chris Sleeman, Bernie Hoffmann, Grant Williams, Bruce Thomas, Lynette Duncan, Lisa Holloway, Ian Mills, Justin Faggotter, Emerson Stevens, Ben Stevens, Juris Wulfius, Amy Challans, Adam Mather, Prairie Girl and Karen Teague on 24 points.

This week's big movers and shakers begins with Karen Hickman up 56, John Boland up 40, John Whittaker up 28, Melissa Williams up 25, Jason Allsopp up 23, Steven Burnett up 21, Bernie Hoffmann up 20, Neville Rankine and Karen Ayles up 16, Justin King and Scott Gage up 14, Jenny Quilliam, Ian Mills, Kathy Lange and Justin Faggotter up 13, Bob Ellis, Bruce Thomas, Lynette Duncan, Lisa Holloway and Anthony Beck up 12, Sandy Ellis and Trudi Bishop up 11.

The current 33rd last place holder is Andy Duncan who fell 8 places. Last week it was Nick Leidig who fell 15 spots.

This week there were 31 distinct tips, 9 more than last week reflecting the 8 matches this round vs 7 for last round.

The average total score is 22.3 and the average score this round was 5.2.

Port Adelaide – Currently sitting 8th on the AFL ladder after Round 4, Port Adelaide next play Essendon at Adelaide Oval on Friday night (Round 5) looking to consolidate themselves in the eight.

Adelaide Crows – Currently 13th on the AFL ladder after Round 4, Adelaide face Carlton at Adelaide Oval on Thursday night (Round 5).
 

Next week is Gather Round where all 9 matches with be played in Adelaide and the Barossa over Thursday night to Sunday evening.  Will the fans be able to get here from interstate?

Rocky reporting for the ISTS AFL Pools - 2026