Defender Shaun Atley is free to play against Richmond this Friday night, after the Match Review Panel decided no sanction was warranted for his tackle on Bulldog Lachie Hunter.

Over the course of the weekend, several media commentators suggested Atley may face scrutiny from the MRP, with some comparing his tackle to that of Essendon’s Courtenay Dempsey, who was referred directly to the Tribunal for his tackle on Saturday night.

But while Atley’s tackle was deemed to be “careless” and worthy of a free kick, the MRP confirmed no further punishment would be handed out to the speedster.

“After viewing all available footage and receiving a medical report from the Western Bulldogs, the panel said it was their view that Atley’s action to lift Hunter during his tackle was careless, but there was not sufficient force to be able to sustain a report of rough conduct,” the MRP findings stated.

“A free kick was paid at the time by the umpire and the panel said there was no head contact to the ground for Hunter in the tackle. Further, there was not significant contact to the ground with Hunter’s body as the Bulldogs’ player was able to brace for the fall with his arm.

“As such, the panel felt a charge could not be sustained in this instance and no further action was taken.”