GFFL Round 5, 2025 Preview

Round 5 of the 2025 Great Flinders Football League season promises to deliver another action-packed weekend as six teams are set to clash in a trio of pivotal encounters. With ladder positions tight and form lines beginning to take shape, this round could have a significant impact on the race to finals. Equally important is the chance to reflect on the tireless efforts of volunteers—whose contributions, whether on the gate, in the canteen, or behind the scenes, make regional football possible. Your selflessness fosters community connection, lasting friendships, and an enduring passion for the game.

Cummins Kapinnie (5th) vs Tumby Bay (2nd) – Cummins Oval

Cummins Kapinnie host the high-flying Tumby Bay in what shapes as a litmus test for the Cougars. After a mixed start to their campaign, they’ll be eager to notch a big scalp and launch themselves back into finals contention. Key players like Corey Paech, Reuben Hill and Thomas Phelps will need to be at their best to match the Blues’ engine room, led by Jackson Murphy and Maddox Hunt.

Tumby Bay have been in strong form, sitting second with just one loss, and boast one of the most dangerous forward lines in the competition. The height of Nigel James and speed of leading goal kicker Grant Mcleod could stretch the Cougars’ defence, especially if delivery from midfield is clean. If Cummins Kapinnie can turn it into a contested scrap, they’re every chance to make life difficult for the visitors.

Last time they met R17 2024 - CK 4.5-29 defeated by TB 18.16-124

Cummins Kapinnie

Ins: Archer Appleton, Majoor Ackland, Josh Horgan, Henry Turnbull

Outs: Daniel Puckridge, Levi Konitzka, Billy Mahoney, Hayden Bennett

Tumby Bay

Ins: Dylan Eatts, Brodie Lienert & Joey Lienert (debut)

Outs: Mackenzie Best, Tom Kelly & Connor Newton

Elliston Districts (4th) vs United Yeelanna (1st) – Poochera Oval

Elliston Districts face the ultimate challenge this week as they host undefeated ladder-leaders United Yeelanna at Poochera. Elliston Districts, currently fourth, will relish the opportunity to test themselves against an unbeated United Yeelanna outfit. Last time they met, the Eagles ran out convincing winners - but the Roosters have improved significantly since then.

The Roosters have been competitive across the early rounds and will look to lean on the experience of players like Rhys Kelsh, Fraser Smith and Tom Lee to guide their brigade. However, to topple the Eagles, they’ll need a four-quarter effort and a strong presence at the contest.

United Yeelanna continue to set the benchmark, with their blend of experience and youth firing on all cylinders. Expect Adam Murnane and Brayden Martin to control the midfield battle, while the likes of Alex Glover up forward will look to capitalise. This one promises to be physical, fast-paced, and a real test of Elliston Districts’ credentials.

Last time they met R17 2024 - ED 10.4-64 defeated by UY 16.17-113

Elliston Districts

Ins: Cooper Van Doorn, Braydn King, Logan Elliott

Outs: Jaxon Bennett (SANFL debut), Ross Bascomb, Lachie Forward

United Yeelanna

Ins: Gaetan Gerber, Will Symonds

Outs: Matt Dyer, Fletcher Chatfield

Lock (3rd) vs Cummins Ramblers (6th) – Lock Oval

Lock return home to face the winless Ramblers in what they’ll view as a must-win game to consolidate their place in the top three. With a powerful midfield and a forward line that’s starting to gel, the Roos will look to stamp their authority early. Billy Byass and Guy Morton continue to be standout contributors.

For Ramblers, there have been patches of promise despite the lack of a win (draw and 1-point loss). A strong showing from their younger cohort, led by Phoenix Milburn, William Turner and Oscar White, could push Lock all the way. They’ll need to bring pressure, composure, and belief.

Last time they met R17 2024 - L 23.12-150 defeated CR 8.6-54

Lock

Ins: Aaron Beard, Blaze Kay

Outs: Macaulay Glover, Tait Hetzel

Cummins Rambler

Ins: Wes Bilney, Kingsley Bilney Jnr, Michael Franklin

Outs: Bailey Doolan, Darcy Claughton, George Pedler

As the GFFL community gathers across the region this weekend, let’s remember that none of this happens without the volunteers—unsung heroes who are the heartbeat of country footy. From the timekeepers to the team managers, thank you for everything you do.