Parramatta Eels back-rower Manu Ma'u has avoided suspension for a crusher tackle on Wests Tigers forward Josh Aloiai on Easter Monday and will be free to play the Panthers on Sunday afternoon.
It was successfully argued that Ma'u was mindful to allow for a gap for Aloiai's head to fall through by moving carefully to the side as he was completing the tackle.
It was contrary to the judicial council's unsuccessful argument that Ma'u didn't fulfil his duty of care and that he forced Aloiai into a dangerous position by placing pressure on his head and neck with his torso.
Aloiai himself was present at the judiciary on Wednesday night in name of defending Ma'u. The Tiger told the judiciary that he reacted to a pre-existing shoulder injury rather than the tackle itself and felt no pressure on either his head or neck.
Ma'u was thankful for Aloiai making himself available.
"I'm very grateful, Josh is one of my good mates and for him to come here and do that I really appreciate it," Ma'u said.
"It was a good result. I'm just keen to play the Panthers. Though I'll work on my tackling now," he added with a laugh.