Essendon midfielder Devon Smith avoids suspension for attempted hit on Kamdyn McIntosh

Essendon star Devon Smith has escaped with a fine for his attempted punch on Richmond's Kamdyn McIntosh in Friday's clash at the MCG.

Smith, who attempted to punch McIntosh in the first quarter, can accept a $1500 fine and is extremely lucky that his attempted hit missed the Richmond star's face.

Additionally, Richmond's Nathan Broad, charged with engaging in misconduct against Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti, will also be docked $1500 if he submits an early plea.

Meanwhile, the AFL's crackdown on player-umpire contact continued with an Essendon duo receiving hefty fines for careless contact with an umpire.

Essendon skipper Dyson Heppell and midfielder David Myers can accept $1500 and $1000 fines respectively for making contact during last night's clash. 

Richmond dashed Essendon's finals hopes and secured top spot on the AFL ladder with the hard-fought eight-point win at the MCG.

The Tigers were cruising at 33 points up in the final term, but had to hold off a late blitz by the Bombers to record the 12.9 (81) to 11.7 (73) in front of 76,424 fans on Friday night.

Dustin Martin (26 possessions) and Josh Caddy starred with four goals apiece in the victory that extended Richmond's record-breaking run of wins at the ground to 20.

The Tigers led by a game-high 33 points when Martin kicked his fourth early in the final term, but Cale Hooker kicked three goals to set up a tense finale.