It will be the battle of the undefeated teams as Southern Districts host PINT under lights at Norbuilt Oval for the first time ever. The clash between the top two sides looms as one of the most anticipated fixtures of the 2025/26 TIO NTFL season so far.
The Greenants have been the competition’s big improvers, stringing together impressive performances across the opening three rounds. Archie Stevens has been a standout, quickly emerging as one of the TIO NTFL’s premier ball-winners after two dominant outings.
But this week presents PINT’s biggest challenge yet against the reigning powerhouse. Southern Districts remain the league’s benchmark and will provide a genuine litmus test for the Greenants’ progress. The Crocs’ depth across every line continues to shine, with star midfielder Jed Anderson leading the way through the middle and Beau Schwarze in red-hot form after collecting 27 disposals and two goals last round.
A fascinating ruck duel looms between PINT’s Connor McDonald and Crocs big man Wyatt Ryan – a match-up almost worth the price of admission on its own. Expect a high-quality contest under lights.
Nightcliff will host Darwin in an intriguing contest at Nightcliff Bendigo Community Bank Community Oval on Saturday afternoon.
The Buffaloes will be eager to respond after a humbling 79-point loss to Southern Districts last weekend. Skipper Jarrod Stokes continues to lead from the front, but the double blues will need a stronger collective effort to bounce back. Darwin’s line-up is expected to be bolstered by the return of a couple of key players.
Nightcliff, coming off the bye, enter the contest fresh and full of confidence. TIO NTFL champion Brodie Filo has resumed his usual dominant form, averaging over 30 disposals across his first two appearances, while hard-running midfielder Peter Politis continues to quietly do damage.
The Tigers have named a powerful side for their return, headlined by former AFL star Brandan Parfitt and VFL gun Riley Baldi. They will be tough to beat at home.
There is rarely a dull moment when St Mary's and the Tiwi Bombers collide, and this weekend’s clash promises to deliver another entertaining chapter in their storied rivalry.
All eyes will be on Willie Rioli, with the 2018 AFL premiership player set to make his long-awaited TIO NTFL return in Tiwi colours for the first time in roughly a decade. His presence alone will inject spark and excitement for the Bombers, who will take confidence from a spirited showing against PINT last round.
Veteran defenders Ashton Hams and Braedon McLean were steady as ever with their clean disposal off half-back, while Michael Thompson had some strong moments through the midfield.
For the Saints, the Landt brothers – Dylan and Jack – starred in last week’s dominant win over Wanderers, while recruit Jackson Braunthal keeps finding plenty of the footy. With both sides boasting flair, speed and scoring power, this should be a crowd-pleaser.
Two clubs searching for their first win of the season will go head-to-head in a crucial Saturday night encounter. Both Wanderers and Palmerston have named their strongest sides of the year for this important contest.
The Magpies will be boosted by the inclusion of former Essendon players Alwyn and Jayden Davey, who return to the line-up together for the first time this season. Their presence will add class to a young side desperate to get on the board.
Wanderers have shown glimpses of improvement, with Cody Leggett continuing his outstanding form as the Muk Muks’ clear standout. Palmerston midfielder Lucas Edmonds has also been in superb touch, collecting 30 disposals last round and driving his side forward at every opportunity.
With both teams desperate to break through, expect a fierce and fast-paced contest that could go right down to the wire.
Stream all matches in 2025/26 TIO NTFL Men's Premier League season live via the NT News and KommunityTV, with the Nightcliff Tigers and Darwin Buffaloes clash available to be streamed live and free.