Beveridge backs AFL shot clock

The much-maligned AFL shot clock has at least one ally, with Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge hoping it stays.

The controversial end to Sunday's match at Etihad Stadium has prompted plenty of calls for the league to abandon the initiative.

With only a few seconds left and North Melbourne leading by a point, their forward Mason Wood watched the 30 seconds tick down on the scoreboard clock before having his set shot at goal.

The tactic infuriated St Kilda fans and AFL operations manager Mark Evans admits it wasn't a great look.

Evans said on Tuesday the AFL could abandon the shot clock during the season, with the league to survey fans this week about the issue.

Its laws of the game committee is also meeting this week and the new clock will be on its agenda.

But Beveridge is adamant it should stay.

"It happens once, let's not jump and think we need to change - I think the shot clock is a good thing," he said.

"It's giving everyone clarity."

It was put to Beveridge that there are better ways for a close game to end than a player having possession and not doing anything.

"But how many games have been played, that have gone down to the wire, when that hasn't happened?" he replied.

"Every now and again, if that happens, good luck to that team - well done Kangaroos ... Mason Wood had the footy, credit to you.

"That's the reward, that they can wind down the last 30 seconds."

Beveridge said it meant the umpires knew exactly how long players should have when they are taking set shots at goal.