In this week’s edition of ‘At The Bar’ Essendon tragic Michael ‘Speedy’ Stratton and The Area News’ Liam Warren sit down to discuss the action on Friday night and look ahead to the finals series.

Liam: Did you watch any of the AFL action over the weekend Speedy

Speedy: I'm an Essendon supporter as many people know and they won, and they are in eighth position so they will have to win again this weekend against Freo but it is in Melbourne so they should win it but I don't think they can win the comp this year.

Liam: Did you catch the Swans vs Crows game on Friday

Speedy: The Swans were terrific. I took them on the tipsters club at the golf club, so I'm pretty happy about that. A lot of people thought I was a ratbag. Well, I am a ratbag, but I'm a good ratbag I know what I'm talking about. 

Liam: What did you make of Lance Franklin’s goal.

Speedy: I have watched Aussie Rules for years, and that is one of the best goals I have ever seen. If he can hold that sort of form, he played very well they will be a big show.

Liam: What are your feeling for the grand final.

Speedy: With the last round coming up but I would like to make one of my now famous predictions don't be surprised if the Giants and Swans fight it out this year big call I know. The Giants are certainly in good form and I know Adelaide will come back there is no doubt and the Richmond Tigers have impressed. For a smokey St Kilda. I know big call, and I'd probably get good odds at the Northside. A lot of people will say they can't win it but if things go there way and the big fella Nick Riewoldt is on song they have a chance.

Liam: That would be a hell of a sendoff for Riewoldt. I really don't think there would be many complaints if it was a Swans vs Crows grand final after the game on Friday.

Speedy: I was surprised at the way, even the top teams have a day off here and there, but just the way whether it was the pressure the Swans exerted on the Crows or if they just had an off night I don't know. But you have to give the Swans credit on a scale of one to ten the pressure and all that stuff I give them a 15. Eddie Betts well I won't say he played badly. He can do things on a footy field that a lot of other players cannot we all know that. I bet there is one side that would love to have him back.

Liam: That has got to be the stupidest bit of business Carlton have ever done getting rid of him.

Speedy: Yeah I don't understand that, but then again money speaks a million languages.