The AFL has announced that a minute’s silence will be observed before each of this weekend’s semi-final matches as a mark of respect for Port Adelaide and Collingwood player John McCarthy.

McCarthy, who died in Las Vegas earlier this week, played 18 games with Collingwood between 2008-2011 and then played 21 matches for Port Adelaide this season, after joining the club through the pre-season Draft.

The start time for Friday night’s Second Semi Final, between Fremantle and the Adelaide Crows at AAMI Stadium, will now be altered to 6.45pm (WST) to accommodate the pre-match ceremony.

“As well as players, coaches and officials, I’m sure all football supporters attending the games this weekend will remember John, his partner and his family and his contribution to our game,” AFL Chief Executive Andrew Demetriou said.