Gun recruit Charlie Dixon has booted five goals to help Port Adelaide to a 45-point AFL win over Melbourne in Alice Springs.

Dixon proved the difference in a dominant second quarter on Saturday to help the Power to an 18.13 (121) to 10.16 (76) win in front of 5146 fans at Traeger Park.

The Gold Coast recruit kicked three majors in the second term as Port seized the momentum and opened up a 21-point lead.

Melbourne’s midfield received silver service from a dominant Max Gawn (48 outs, two goals) but paid the price for inaccuracy and a number of dismal forward entries.

Forward spearhead Jesse Hogan booted three goals but received little help as the Demons continued to turn the ball over.

Port had no such problems, moving the ball with precision and stifling the Demons’ run.

Dangerous forward Chad Wingard’s forward pressure was outstanding, while rookie Darcy Byrne-Jones staked his claim for a Rising Star nomination with 23 touches, eight marks and a goal.

Melbourne star Jack Viney was tagged out of the game by Brad Ebert, managing just seven touches to halftime.

The Demons threatened a comeback late in the third quarter, bringing the margin back within three goals.

But the Power had all the run in the final quarter, with late goals to Jarman Impey and Jake Neade sealing the win.