Port Adelaide's powerbrokers face a tough decision after another finals exist at the preliminary final stage. Unlocking the path to premiership glory may not be as simple as punting its best-ever coach.

Sydney booked its place in the AFL Grand Final for the second time in three seasons with a dominant win over Port Adelaide. Here's three things we learned from the game.

On a milestone night for Port coach Ken Hinkley, his future was right back in the spotlight after a six-goal belting against the Swans at the SCG.

Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley has fallen short of an AFL grand final berth for the fourth time after losing to Sydney by 36 points in a preliminary final.

Under-pressure Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley has called on the narrative around his finals failures to “stop”, but understands why he cops the brunt of criticism. Hinkley, in his 12th season at the helm, has experienced another post-season flop after the Power fell to a six-goal loss in Friday night’s lopsided preliminary final.

Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley was involved in a firey exchange with Hawthorn players after Friday night's AFL semi-final.