Melbourne will be desperate to avoid a second consecutive straight-sets finals exit. Thursday night's qualifying final defeat to Collingwood was an equal club-record third straight loss in a final since their drought-breaking 2021 premiership. The Demons will be without midfielder Angus Brayshaw (concussion), as well as Jacob van Rooyen (suspension) if the club can't clear the young forward at the tribunal. Melbourne dominated inside 50s 69-37 against the Magpies but old problems with their dysfunctional forward line came back to haunt them. Carlton will be looking to build on the momentum of their thrilling six-point win over Sydney - their first final since 2013. But like Melbourne, the Blues will be without two important players. Key forward Harry McKay (concussion) has already been ruled out, while versatile forward Jack Martin has been given a two-match suspension, which Carlton have already said they will appeal at the tribunal.
* Head-to-head
Overall: Melbourne 97 wins, Carlton 119 wins, 2 draws
In Finals: Melbourne 6 wins, Carlton 2 wins
Last time: Round 22, 2023: Carlton 9.6 (60) beat Melbourne 8.8 (56) at MCG
SECOND SEMI-FINAL
Port Adelaide v GWS, Adelaide Oval, Saturday, Sept 16, 7.40pm AEST
Port Adelaide were left humbled by a 48-point defeat to Brisbane at the Lions' Gabba fortress in the qualifying final. The Power's defensive woes look to have deepened with Trent McKenzie (ankle) and Dylan Williams (hamstring) unlikely to take on GWS after both were hurt in a chaotic third quarter against the Lions. Ken Hinkley's side will take confidence out of smashing GWS by 51 points only a month ago. But the Giants will not fear going to the Adelaide Oval, having won at a record 11 different venues this season. The Giants played some scintillating football to defeat St Kilda in Saturday's elimination final at the MCG. GWS still have a number of players who memorably made a grand final from sixth by winning two finals on the road.
* Head-to-head
Overall: Port Adelaide 8 wins, GWS 6 wins
In Finals: Nil
Last time: Round 22, 2023: Port Adelaide 21.10 (136) beat GWS 13.7 (85) at Adelaide Oval
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