Melbourne has advanced to the AFL pre-season semi-finals, riding forward Russell Robertson's five-goal haul to a nine-point quarter-final win over Brisbane at Telstra Dome.

Robertson kicked goals in each quarter in the Demons' 0.13.12 (90) to 0.12.9 (81) victory - his late final quarter major helping give his side an unassailable lead.

Brisbane fought back from 26 points down in the third term to take the lead at the 12-minute mark of the final quarter when Jason Akermanis goaled.

But Melbourne lifted with goals to Aaron Davey and Robertson to seal the victory and move into next Friday night's semi-final against the winner of Saturday night's Hawthorn-Adelaide quarter-final.

The Demons trailed by two points at quarter-time, before Robertson broke the game open in the second term with two goals to help his side to a 14-point lead at the long break.

Melbourne increased its lead to 26 points with two early Brad Miller goals in the third term.

But Brisbane, spearheaded by their top pick at last year's draft Mitchell Clark, fought back.

Clark kicked two of his three goals in succession, then dished off another to bring his side within seven points and the Lions eventually trailed by nine at three-quarter time thanks to a Luke Power goal after the siren.

Brisbane kicked three of the opening four goals of the final term and swept to the lead when Akermanis goaled before the Demons steadied.

Robertson, midfielder Colin Sylvia and Davey, who kicked three goals, were Melbourne's best players.

Brisbane midfielders Luke Power and Simon Black were their side's best, while Clark starred in only his second match.

Melbourne lost defender Jared Rivers with an arm injury in the third quarter.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP