Yesterday's presentation was slick, close to flawless and above all respectful.

The crowd recognised the occasion. It was standing minutes before the master of ceremonies requested them to do so for the pre-match formalities.

Even when the only glitch - the period of silence extending beyond what was planned - there was not a whisper among the near 90,000 assembled for the occasion.

For anyone with a family connection to Gallipoli or World War I it's a particularly haunting occasion but clearly it means a lot to so many more in Australian society.

While it increases the period of wait for the players, the extension of the ceremony to now include the singing of the New Zealand anthem, the country with which we uniquely share a national day, is classy and no doubt appreciated by the many Kiwis who live in and visit Australia.

Essendon and Collingwood made the commitment in 1995 not just to play each other every Anzac Day but to respect and promote the occasion. They have done it well.

But should it go on for evermore as a result? No doubt many other clubs would like to share the spoils and the opportunity.

Yesterday was a far cry from Anzac Day games at the G prior to the start of the Bomber Magpie rivalry when you could roll up at the gate, buy a ticket on the spot and then sit just about anywhere you wanted.

Those who've changed that deserve the credit. But just how long the credit lasts will be fascinating because it just looks too good a gig for those not currently on the cast list.

There are of course other games played on April 25 these days, just as in years gone by after the law changed to allow them in 1960. York Park has even hosted one in recent years.

But they just don't quite have the same feel as those at the MCG - nor the revenue, profile or exposure.

The pros and cons for change will be as numerous and contentious as those for a move to a night grand final - even though in the latter case, the participating teams are chosen by quite a different process.

Anzac Eve offers up an alternative solution as such an occasion. Many were impressed by the quality and reverence of Friday night's presentation before the Richmond Melbourne game. Perhaps it could provide an opportunity for the other teams interested in the Anzac connection.

None of that will work however if the emphasis and expectation is on the normal benefits that flow from participation in a blockbuster.

For the success of Anzac Day at the G has grown out of respect for the occasion - in the lead up to, immediately before as well as during and after each encounter.

There was nothing exceptional about yesterday's match. It was a scrappy affair, with few heroics or special moments - apart from the crowd's spontaneous acknowledgment of Dustin Fletcher's successful set kick for goal from outside 50.

Perhaps like several of the recent editions. But the crowds will be back regardless because this has become a special part of a very special day. It will be tough to mount a case that it should be done any differently.