np , i use the same thing for some of my windows, i use a hidden field at the begining (just a numeric value but its a calculated value based on other things in the line), that is tabhidden by the next field, i use this to sort the lines, by fieldone then fieldtwo. (field 2 is nick) so that gets a list in value weighted order, with sub sorting of save values based on nick.
Anyway i digress, i replied to suggest you use $gettok to get the correct tab seperated field
$gettok($line(@window,N),1,9) => first field (tab seperated) on line N
$gettok($line(@window,N),2,9) => second field (tab seperated) on line N
etc etc
