UPDATE: The AFL's controversial ticketing policy caused more outrage ahead of the most hotly anticipated game of the season - although it didn't stop more than 80,000 supporters turning up to the MCG.

Only hours before the Geelong Hawthorn clash, the AFL opened the door for club members who had been told they needed to pay extra to attend, that they could finally do so for free.

The MCG stands were packed for the Geelong-Hawthorn Easter Monday game in 2010 Credit:Sebastian Costanzo

The Easter Monday MCG blockbuster between Geelong and Hawthorn had been classified as an 'A-Reserved' game, meaning that every person attending was required to have an individual match ticket and could not simply swipe their membership card at the gate.

Members of both clubs were therefore advised they needed to purchase a dedicated match ticket in addition to the cost of their membership. Ticket prices ranged from $8.50 to $29.00 for adults, and $2.00 to $11.00 for juniors.