Newcastle utility Matt Hilder has escaped suspension despite being charged over a high tackle in Sunday’s NRL elimination final win over Canterbury.

Hilder copped a grade one careless high tackle charge for his hit on Bulldogs winger Mitch Brown just before halftime, a match the Knights won 22-6 to progress to a semi-final against Melbourne on Saturday night.

The back-up hooker/back-rower will be free to play against the Storm, his charge attracting just 75 demerit points.

Despite his availability, Hilder may still find himself on the outer when coach Wayne Bennett names his squad on Tuesday, with veteran hooker Craig Gower in the frame for a return following neck surgery.

Gower said on Sunday he hoped to prove his fitness on Tuesday in what would be a welcome boost for the Knights.

Bulldogs skipper Michael Ennis copped the same charge for his high shot on James McManus in the opening minute and, like Hilder, will not serve any time for the offence.