GIANTS forward Toby Greene is free to play in Saturday’s semi-final after being handed a fine at the AFL Tribunal.

Greene was charged with serious misconduct against Marcus Bontempelli by the Match Review Officer following Saturday’s win over the Western Bulldogs.

The AFL Tribunal was held in Melbourne on Monday night with Greene appearing in person and pleading guilty to the AFL’s charge.

Footage of the incident was described by the AFL’s QC Jeff Gleeson as “making contact with the forearm and hands to Bontempelli's head” and “the pulling of Bontempelli's hair”.

The Western Bulldog's medical report acknowledged that Bontempelli was assessed but required no treatment following the incident.

Providing a statement during the hearing, Greene said: "My actions were a reaction to an incident that occurred in the tackle... looking back on the incident I understand I overstepped the mark in my remonstration. I am extremely apologetic if there was any harm done to Bontempelli."

Gleeson submitted that Greene should receive a significant fine but that the charge did not warrant a suspension given Greene’s remorse and that he made no attempt to defend his actions.

The Tribunal deliberated for 12 minutes before handing Greene a $7,500 fine.

Following the hearing Greene said:“I’d just like to thank the tribunal for a fair hearing and I apologise to Marcus for my actions.

“I’m extremely apologetic for what I did and just can’t wait to get out there on Saturday."

The GIANTS take on the Brisbane Lions in a semi-final at the Gabba on Saturday night.