IRREWARRA-BEEAC flexed its muscle to run away from Alvie in the match-of-the round on Saturday.

The Swans stuck with the Bombers for three quarters before the reigning premiers powered away in the final term to run out 40-point winners.

A large crowd filled the Irrewarra Rec Reserve to watch an intriguing contest between two sides expected to be key players in the finals.

Alvie had its hands all over the ball in the first term, but missed important shots at goal.

Bombers coach Dan Casey thought the Swans' quick start could have been costly had they been more accurate.

"It will be one of the closest finals series for a long time (and) having a tough draw running into finals will be good preparation for us," Casey said.

Alvie coach Luke McLennan was looking for the positives after the game.

"The Bombers have beaten us twice this season and we have been able to match them in patches which is a positive," he said.