A capacity crowd of 19,005 filled Belmore Sports Ground yesterday to witness a thrilling NRL contest between the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and the Cronulla Sharks, in what was the second premiership match at the venue in less than a month.

Despite a narrow 18-16 defeat for the home side, the atmosphere at Belmore was electric, with families, lifelong fans and first-time visitors soaking up the unique experience of suburban rugby league in full flight.

Back to Belmore President Luke Cevolani said the day was another triumph for the local community.

"Yesterday was a celebration of everything that makes Belmore special," Mr Cevolani said.

"The home side may not have gotten the result on the field, but in every other sense it was a huge win for the community. To see nearly 20,000 people at Belmore again - it was something really special."

Vice President Steven Cataldi said the energy could be felt from early in the day right through to full-time.

"Belmore was buzzing. These games are doing so much more than bringing footy back - they're breathing new life into the Canterbury-Bankstown district," Mr Cataldi said.

"We've proven what's possible. The support is therre, the infrastructure is there, and the community is absoultely behind it. We're optimistic that yesterday won't be the last game."

Local businesses also enjoyed another significant uplift, with an estimated $500,000 injected into the local economy as fans flocked to nearby retailers on Burwood Road before and after the game.

With the NRL set to announce the 2016 draw later this year, Back to Belmore is hopeful that yesterday's turnout and impact will help make the case for Belmore Sports Ground to again feature in the league's future scheduling.