James Tedesco under fire with footy fans after blatant trip on Melbourne Storm fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen - as Roosters star is hit with a feather by NRL judiciary

Roosters star James Tedesco has somehow avoided suspension after tripping Melbourne Storm fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen on Thursday night at Allianz Stadium - and footy fans aren't happy.

The Tricolours skipper was charged with dangerous conduct on Friday by the NRL judiciary following the incident late in the gripping contest, but only faces a fine of $750 if he pleads guilty.

If he contests the charge and loses, he will have to cough up $1000.

Papenhuyzen - who has battled a series of long term injuries in his career - was seething at Tedesco's contact.

He made his feelings well known on the field to referee Ashley Klein, believing his rival opposite deserved to be sin-binned. 

In commentary for Channel Nine, Immortal Andrew Johns reminded viewers tripping used to be an automatic send-off 'in the good old days.'

And Johns' view was shared by many incensed footy fans. 

'Tripping is a bad act, it deserves a sin bin,' one supporter fumed on Facebook.

Another posted: 'So what's the punishment...a slap on the wrist and told not to do it again ?

Rugby League News didn't mince their words on X - the social media platform formerly known as Twitter - on Thursday when it came to Tedesco only being placed on report by Klein.

'Deliberate trip not a sin bin now? Or is it because it’s Tedesco? Ridiculous,' they posted.

Meanwhile, Roosters prop Jared Waerea-Hargreaves was also charged with dangerous contact for an incident involving Storm prop Christian Welch.

The veteran front-rower is looking at a fine of $1800 or $2500 following his second offence of the season.