THE AFL has announced the fixture for week three of the 2018 Toyota AFL Finals Series.

Minor premiers Richmond will kick off preliminary final weekend, hosting Collingwood at the MCG on Friday night.

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West Coast welcomes Melbourne to Optus Stadium on Saturday for the second preliminary final.

Week three Toyota AFL Finals Series

Friday, September 21

First preliminary final
Richmond v Collingwood at the MCG, 7.50pm

Saturday, September 22

Second Preliminary Final
West Coast v Melbourne at Optus Stadium, 1.20pm AWST (3.20pm AEST)

The rare afternoon start time for Saturday's clash allows Melbourne to return home that night in preparation for the Grand Final, should they defeat the Eagles.

"On behalf of the AFL, we wish to thank Virgin Australia for their many hours of work to be able to achieve a direct flight immediately after the game," general manager of clubs and broadcasting Travis Auld said during the week.