The AFL has confirmed its highly touted Edge technology was not used in the goal review that helped Richmond hold off Fremantle because Nathan Broad's contact with a post compromised the system.
Dockers wingman Ethan Hughes' long shot at goal could have dragged the home side back within four points late in Saturday night's contest at Optus Stadium.
The goal umpire believed the ball had touched the goal post but called for a review, which found the available evidence was inconclusive.
That meant the decision fell back on the umpire and the behind stood.
Richmond's lead was cut to nine points and they hung on to win a thriller, giving their finals hopes a massive boost in the process.
The Edge technology - used to determine whether a ball has hit the post - was not shown on the television broadcast.
Tigers defender Broad tracked Hughes' kick back towards the goal line and ran into the goal post, compromising the Edge system.
With Edge unavailable, there was insufficient evidence to determine whether the ball hit or missed the goal post.
An AFL spokesperson on Sunday told AAP the league had ticked off the goal review process.
After the match, Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir said clubs had no choice but to put their faith in the system.
"You just rely on the correct avenues to get it right in that situation," Longmuir told reporters on Saturday night.
"You trust that the review gets it right. That's where I'll leave it."
Richmond's win improved their season record to 5-7-1 and boosted their top-eight hopes, while Fremantle (6-6) sit two points ahead in 10th spot.
