Willie Rioli has apologised for a threatening private message sent to a Western Bulldogs player that caused a stir and was referred to the AFL.

No further action will be taken by the League after the Port Adelaide forward contacted a teammate of Bulldogs opponent Bailey Dale.

The Bulldogs will play Gold Coast this Saturday night in Darwin. It’s understood Rioli messaged the teammate to say he had friends in Darwin and Dale should be careful about leaving the team hotel while in the city.

The text was sent after Rioli and Dale clashed in Saturday’s game in Ballarat.

It’s an unwelcome distraction for the Power ahead of next Saturday night’s Showdown against Adelaide.

“Port Adelaide is aware of a private message sent by Willie Rioli to a Western Bulldogs player following Saturday afternoon’s game between the two clubs,” the Power said in a statement on Monday evening.

“The matter has now been resolved privately after Willie contacted Bailey Dale from the Bulldogs.”

The league also put out a brief statement, saying it had “reminded both clubs to ensure any communications remain respectful”.

Port are coming off a 90-point thrashing from the Bulldogs.

Rioli can accept a $1000 fine for striking Dale off the ball in the third term.

Along with the private message, Rioli also posted on Instagram, expressing his frustration about being fined for striking Dale.

Once the Bulldogs became aware of the message to Dale’s teammate, they contacted the league and Port.

Last month, Rioli posted on Instagram after Port’s emotion-charged win over Hawthorn.

Rioli spoke of his hatred for the Hawks, and the backlash prompted him to briefly take leave from the club.