Brisbane ruckman Oscar McInerney will be the heartbreak story of the Lions' second grand final appearance in as many years after dislocating his shoulder.

The first story of grand final heartbreak looks to have been written with Brisbane coach Chris Fagan all but ruling out ruckman Oscar McInerney from next week’s grand final.

Brisbane Lions ruckman Oscar McInerney will miss the AFL grand final after his serious shoulder injury was treated by paramedics during Saturday night’s win over Geelong. The 30-year-old was in agony as he suddenly called for medical attention while play continued around him late in the first quarter of the preliminary final.

Brisbane Lions ruckman Oscar McInerney is battling a grisly injury after dislocating his shoulder in the first term of the preliminary final.

The Brisbane Lions will fly to Melbourne a day earlier than they did last year as they prepare to face Sydney in the first non-Victorian grand final in 18 years.

All-Ireland winner Conor McKenna is through to the second consecutive AFL Grand Final of his career after helping the Brisbane Lions to complete a sensational comeback victory 85-95 against Geelong in the first preliminary final at the MCG.

Brisbane emerged victorious from the preliminary final 14.11 (95) to 12.13 (85) and will chase their fourth premiership, and first since 2003, when they face the Sydney Swans next Saturday. The loss for Geelong spells the end of Zach Tuohy’s career in the AFL,