Sydney goes 4-0 in close games as AFL delivers 53 thrillers
The Swans held a perfect record in games decided by 10 points or less, going unbeaten in four thrillers.
Sydney delivered a flawless 2026 campaign in close finishes, winning all four games decided by 10 points or less. The Western Bulldogs also stepped up in thrillers, posting an 8-1 record in tight contests, including a three-point wildcard final win over Collingwood.
Across the competition, 53 games were decided by 10 points or fewer, the third-highest total ever behind 2024 and 2023. The past four seasons have all topped the previous record of 49 set in 2014.
Brisbane's premiers only played in four such games, winning both their finals contests but losing their first two during the regular season.
- 4-0
- Sydney close-game record
- 8-1
- Bulldogs close-game record
- 53
- Games decided by 10 points or less
- 49 in 2014
- Previous record
Why it mattersClose-game records often predict finals success, so Sydney's perfect record signals their form heading into the finals, while the Bulldogs' strength in thrillers suggests they peak when matches matter most.
AustraliaFor Australian AFL fans, these stats reveal which teams stay calm under pressure. Sydney's unblemished record and the Bulldogs' mastery of tight finishes will shape expectations for next season's close contests.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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