CYRIL Rioli is free to take on Essendon in Friday night’s top-of-the-table clash at Etihad Stadium after being cleared by the Match Review Panel on Monday.

The Match Review Panel assessed a tackle laid by Rioli on Bulldogs star Ryan Griffen in Hawthorn’s goal square during the first quarter of Saturday’s win.

Rioli tackled Griffen strongly to the ground, pinning his arm so the Bulldogs midfielder couldn’t release a handpass.

Griffen hit the ground hard, before players converged on him and the umpire called for a ball up. He received some medical attention after appearing dazed, but stayed on the ground and played out the match to be one of the Dogs’ best in the loss.

The Match Review Panel contended Rioli did not drive Griffen into the ground or use excessive force. The tackle was not unreasonable in the circumstances.

Rioli's action after the tackle - holding Griffen's armwas also determined not to have the force required to sustain a report.

Nofurther action was taken.

Rioli is free to play against the Bombers on Friday night.