NORTH Melbourne forward Lindsay Thomas is free to play in the Roos' semi-final against the Sydney Swans after escaping with a fine for kicking Tigers defender Dylan Grimes.

The Match Review Panel charged Thomas with misconduct against Grimes in the third quarter of North's exciting elimination final win.

MRP full statement: finals week one

Under the new MRP guidelines, a first offence of misconduct draws an immediate $1500 fine, and Thomas accepted a $1000 fine with an early guilty plea on Tuesday morning.

It means Thomas, who started as the substitute on Sunday, will be available for selection against the Swans next Saturday night at ANZ Stadium. 

Thomas was one of only two charges raised by the MRP after the first week of the finals, with Western Bulldogs captain Robert Murphy cited for engaging in rough conduct against Adelaide small forward Charlie Cameron.

Murphy's off-the-ball hit was slightly high, being assessed as careless conduct with low impact to the head. It drew a $1500 sanction, which was reduced to $1000 with a guilty plea.

The panel cleared West Coast midfielder Xavier Ellis for his high hit on Hawks star Cyril Rioli in Friday night's qualifying final.

The MRP said Ellis made contact to the ball with his fist before collecting Rioli with his bicep in the marking contest, and that the 50m penalty handed to Rioli was appropriate.