THE controversy over the free kick not paid to Hawthorn's Cyril Rioli in the dying seconds of last Friday night's Hawthorn-Geelong thriller continues to be the subject of vigorous debate, with the AFL denying the interpretation of the holding-the-ball rule has changed.

Hawthorn supporters are still livid that Rioli's tackle on Geelong's Mitch Duncan was not rewarded with a free kick, despite the Cat having taken several steps after receiving the ball and failing to get foot to ball as it spilled free.

Mitch Duncan is tackled by Hawthorn's Cyril Rioli. Credit:Sebastian Costanzo

With the Hawks leading by three points and just over a minute left, Rioli would have kicked for goal from only 30 metres out, directly in front, had the free been paid.

The Cats stole victory with Tom Hawkins' goal on the siren.