Ahead of Round One of the AFL season, concerns are emerging over SafeTix after reports of entry issues at the gate before the State of Origin.

The match marked the first Aussie rules Origin game in 27 years, which drew more than 58,000 spectators to Optus Stadium.

The historic clash between Western Australia and Victoria soon became a stadium filled with frustrated fans as thousands struggled to scan their digital tickets.

The change, aimed at preventing ticket fraud, uses near-field communication, the same technology used in Apple or Google Wallet for credit cards, and is designed to increase safety.

Fremantle Football Club’s head of membership Sarah Sawdon says issues occurred because the fans weren’t familiar with the changes.

“I myself went to the gate and was using the barcode scanner when I needed to use the NFC tap and go system,” she says.

“People weren’t getting let into the gate well into quarter one and it got to a point where they had to let people rush through because it caused such a havoc.”

Origin attendee and Fremantle member Hannah Fields says the experience was stressful.

“I could see everyone around me angry and distressed; I was experiencing those feelings,” she says.

“Particularly because it was a really hot day and it was uncomfortable to stand in.”

Ms Sawdon says the club are communicating the changes with fans ahead of first home clash against Melbounre.

“We emailed them when tickets went on sale about how they can start adding their tickets to wallet and the changes they can expect,” she says

“It’s important to know we are working with Ticketmaster directly to make sure people are there to help at the game.”