Melbourne have given themselves a confidence boost ahead of their blockbuster AFLW qualifying final, overcoming Adelaide by 18 points despite an injury concern to star Kate Hore.

At a wet Unley Oval on Sunday, the Demons claimed a third consecutive victory and ended their regular season 10-2 by prevailing 6.11 (47) to 3.11 (29).

But they may have to sweat on midfielder Hore, who was left holding her shoulder after Jemmika Douglas bumped her in the dying minutes of the clash.

Tyla Hanks insists the team's captain will be fine for next week's final against the high-flying Geelong, telling the Seven Network the four-time All-Australian is "pretty tough".

Demons coach Tom Wilson said Hore is "fine".

"Any time you see a player go down like that your heart is in your mouth a little bit, but the good news is that she's all OK," Wilson said.

The Dees were without several players, including star midfielder Olivia Purcell (managed), emerging ruck Georgia Campbell (illness) and Shelley Heath-Barker (concussion).

Melbourne were virtually locked into third going into the clash, but knew a victory would be crucial as they look to avenge last year's finish.

The Demons finished second on the ladder in 2025, but lost in the first week of finals then exited the competition at the preliminary final stage after North Melbourne produced a fourth-quarter clinic.

The Demons were strong from the outset on Sunday as they dominated first-half clearances to open up a 25-point lead at the main break.

Forward Ryleigh Wotherspoon booted two majors in the second half to put the result beyond doubt, although Adelaide salvaged some pride by kicking the last goal. 

For Melbourne, midfielders Megan Fitzsimon (one goal) and Hanks were busy registering 26 and 29 disposals respectively. 

Ebony Marinoff (34 disposals, 11 tackles, eight clearances) excelled once again for the Crows, although they will hope Caitlin Gould's foot injury isn't serious after she stepped awkwardly while trying to grasp the ball and hobbled off the field in the third term.