How AFL scoring works
A goal is worth 6 points and a behind is worth 1 point. AFL scores are written as goals.behinds (total), so a score of 14.12 (96) means 14 goals and 12 behinds: 14 × 6 + 12 = 96 points. The team with the higher total wins; goals alone don't decide it.
Goals
A goal is scored when an attacking player kicks the ball between the two taller goal posts and no other player touches it on the way through. The goal umpire signals a goal by pointing both index fingers forward.
Behinds
A behind (one point) is scored when the ball passes between a goal post and a shorter behind post, hits a goal post, is touched before crossing the goal line, or goes through off any part of the body other than the foot. The goal umpire signals a behind with one index finger.
Reading a scoreline
In the 2026 Grand Final, Brisbane Lions scored 14.12 (96) and Fremantle 12.17 (89). Fremantle kicked more scoring shots (29 to 26) but fewer goals, so Brisbane won by 7 points.
Quarters and time
A match is four quarters of 20 minutes, with the clock stopped for stoppages, so real quarters run closer to 30 minutes.
Questions
How many points is a goal in AFL?
Six. A goal is scored when the ball is kicked between the two tall goal posts without being touched by another player.
How many points is a behind?
One. A behind is scored when the ball passes between a goal post and a behind post, hits a goal post, or goes through the goals off any part of the body other than the foot, or after being touched.
What does 14.12 (96) mean?
14 goals and 12 behinds, for 96 points: 14 × 6 = 84, plus 12 = 96. The total in brackets is what decides the winner.
What is a rushed behind?
A behind conceded when a defender deliberately or accidentally puts the ball through the behind posts. It still counts as one point to the attacking team.
What happens if a final is drawn?
Extra time is played. If scores are still level after the extra periods, play continues until the next score wins the game. Drawn home-and-away games stay drawn, with two premiership points each.