North Melbourne's fears have been somewhat allayed, with Shaun Higgins free to play against the Bombers on Sunday.

Many speculated the star mid-fielder could have been suspended after he was involved in more than one heated exchange in the spiteful match against the Bulldogs last Saturday night.

Instead of suspension though, the 30-year-old was instead handed a $2000 sanction with an early plea, for a second offence of misconduct against Josh Dunkley in the second quarter.

Ben Cunnington also came in for some attention from the Match Review Officer after making contact with an umpire. 

Charges Laid:

Shaun Higgins, North Melbourne, has been charged with a second offence of misconduct for misconduct against Josh Dunkley, Western Bulldogs, during the second quarter of the Round 14 match between North Melbourne and the Western Bulldogs, played at Etihad Stadium on Saturday June 23, 2018.

In summary, he can accept a $2000 sanction with an early plea.

Based on the available evidence and a medical report from the Western Bulldogs Football Club, the incident was classified as misconduct. A second offence for misconduct draws a $3500 sanction. The player can accept a $2000 sanction with an early plea.

Ben Cunnington, North Melbourne, has been charged with making careless contact with umpire Jacob Mollison during the fourth quarter of the Round 14 match between North Melbourne and the Western Bulldogs, played at Etihad Stadium on Saturday June 23, 2018.

In summary, he can accept a $1000 sanction with an early plea.

Making careless contact with an umpire is a fixed financial sanction of $1500. The player can accept a $1000 sanction with an early plea.