AFTER 15 rounds, the Match Review Panel this week made clear the threshold for medium impact when it comes to the so-called 'tummy tap'.

Reluctant so far this season to punish intentional strikes to the body with suspension, the MRP pulled the trigger with Essendon midfielder David Zaharakis and issued a one-match ban.

There have now been 16 intentional strikes to the body this season, with Robbie Gray, Levi Greenwood, Michael Firrito and Dale Thomas among those escaping with financial sanctions.

The 'tummy tap' is a trend that has crept into the game as a result of the MRP's seemingly lenient punishment, with Gold Coast's Tom Lynch the most fortunate player to avoid suspension for a full-blooded punch to an opponent's body. 

By grading Zaharakis's strike to West Coast's Jackson Nelson as medium impact – based on the young Eagle's response and his club doctor's medical report – the MRP might now be clamping down on the trend. 

It will be interesting to see if players adjust to what might be viewed as a new precedent or if they continue to run the gauntlet and strike opponents in the heat of battle. 

Jackson Nelson is helped from the field after the strike. Picture: AFL Media