THE AFL is urging fans to arrive early for Hawthorn's semi-final clash with the Western Bulldogs at the MCG on Friday night, with more than 80,000 expected in the crowd.

Parking spots at Yarra Park will be very limited after inclement weather in the lead-up to the game. Supporters are encouraged to take public transport.

Extra train services will run before and after the match.

MCC boss Stephen Gough said people attending the game should arrive early to avoid missing any of the football.

"We want to ensure everyone is inside the stadium before the first bounce, but these entry processes take time," Gough said.

"With such a large crowd expected, fans will need to be patient and arrive earlier than usual, or risk missing out on the action."

Fans will be wanded and have bags checked as they enter the ground, as has happened throughout the season.

The MCC Members Reserve gate will open at 5PM, with the public and AFL Reserve gates to open at 5.30PM. The match will start at 7.50PM.

There are 6,000 public tickets available for that contest, while 7,100 remain for Saturday night's match between the Sydney Swans and Adelaide at the SCG.