Key forward Jake Carlisle has been cleared by the Match Review Panel to line up in Essendon’s season opener against North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium on March 21.

Carlisle was reported in Friday afternoon’s practice match against Richmond for misconduct (kneeing) Richmond’s Steve Morris during the second quarter.

After speaking to the umpire who laid the match day report, viewing all available footage and receiving the medical report from Richmond Football Club, it was the view of the Match Review Panel the force was below that required to constitute a report.

The Bombers will be without midfielder Jake Melksham for the Round 1 clash against the Kangaroos after he was suspended for two matches in the final round of the season in 2013

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