AFL chief Gillon McLachlan says "allegations are easy" amid claims by a National Rugby League television host that she witnessed two AFL players consuming what has been called society's most destructive drug.

As two of the AFL's premier power forwards prepare for battle in Shanghai on Sunday, one of their elders has suggested the league could be on the verge of a golden era.

Johann Wagner works nightshift these days in the Roxby Downs mines. He embarks on the six-hour drive from Port Lincoln for the seven-day shift on a week-on, week-off basis that makes even country football virtually impossible apart from the odd cameo.

Ask an athlete to view him or herself, and more often than not the reply is likely to be based on, or certainly influenced by, the prism of their performances on the sporting field.

AFL confirms Shanghai match will be broadcast live in China with 'staggering' audience potential - and that's worth celebrating, says Port chairman.

From questions in Mandarin, to local crowd support and players demonstrating handballs, there was nothing normal about this Suns-Power press conference under a blazing Shanghai sun.

With all the hand-wringing going on over an AFL game in Shanghai, you would think travel to China was something new.

The marquee fixtures on the AFL calendar have always been something even fans from rival clubs embrace. The Anzac Day clash is much more than just a blockbuster between Collingwood and Essendon.

Port Adelaide players have been warned about the threat of Asian crime syndicates, as they prepare for a Shanghai showdown against the Gold Coast Suns on Sunday.

Gold Coast plan to hold a mid-journey swimming pool session at Singapore airport to help alleviate injury worries before the AFL's historic match in China.

West Coast is well on its way to losing its tag of flat track bullies following an narrow 10-point victory against Port Adelaide at Adelaide Oval.

We know that many AFL players bemoan the hours of line and team meetings, discussing tactics with those in their own sphere of the ground, along with the broader team. Then there are a presentations about big-picture issues, including anti-gambling and illicit drugs.

If Port Adelaide players are expecting to sit back and relax on their historic trip to Shanghai, they need to think again.

While Port Adelaide look threatening, with four wins from six games, the Brisbane Lions were left to lament the loss of their fifth successive game, as well as their early season optimism.

• Live

It's a big Saturday of footy, with five crucial matches across four states. And we've got it all covered.

Seven goals in 20 minutes. That's what it took for Port Adelaide to blow the Brisbane Lions away at the beginning of this game.

• UPDATED

Port Adelaide is investigating reports one of its AFL players was involved in an incident outside a hotel.

Carlton's latest hammering won't sway Brendon Bolton from his course to rebuild the club, the coach insists.

For the second time this season Port Adelaide blooded a kid to AFL football and he goaled with his first kick.