The Bulldogs versus Gold Coast Suns clash attracted 6833 people, more than 3000 down on last year’s first ever clash for premiership points against Port Adelaide.

The Saturday afternoon scheduling against local football, and the price of reserved seating which ranged from $46 to $59 a seat are seen as two of the main reasons for the smaller than expected crowd.

Lake Wendouree president David Clifton is a dedicated Bulldogs fans that could not make the game due to local football commitments. 

Mr Clifton, who has been a member for “at least 40 years” said he would attend the match later in the year.

“If it was on a Sunday I definitely would've gone, I go as often as I can. As long as it doesn't clash with Lakers, I'll be going,” he said.

While stopping short of calling the crowd disappointing, an AFL spokesperson yesterday admitted the league had hoped more would attend the match.

“The AFL’s expectation for the weekend’s match was that we hoped to get to 8000 when considering the form of both the Bulldogs and the Suns this year, and their positions on the ladder, compared to last year’s game when the Bulldogs were coming in as reigning premiers,” the spokesperson said.

“That said, the attendance was some 3000 short of last year’s match and will hopefully be stronger later in the season.”

The AFL said the Western Bulldogs - as the home team - were responsible for setting seating prices. 

“The AFL sets the base general admission price for adults and children at all our venues, but all reserved seating prices... are a decision for the home club,” It said.

“At this point of 2018, attendance levels are at the highest for the game history even allowing for some matches like Ballarat over the weekend.”  The Bulldogs next play in Ballarat on Sunday July 29 against Port Adelaide.