RICHMOND faces heading into next Saturday's crunch match against Port Adelaide without Alex Rance after the "disappointed" key defender was reported for striking.

The two-time All Australian will be sweating on the Match Review Panel's findings after a brain fade in the closing stages of Sunday night's loss to Melbourne.

A frustrated Rance struck Jack Watts in the back of the head when the Demon was on the lying on the ground after a marking contest.

"He was disappointed with the action," Richmond coach Damien Hardwick told reporters after the game.

"It's unlike Alex, he was frustrated. But there's not much more I can say."

Rance's teammate Anthony Miles admitted frustration had gotten the better of the full-back.

"Rancey is a pretty passionate guy," Miles told AFL.com.au.

"He wears his jumper every week with such pride."

Watts did not suffer any injuries from the blow to the head.

The incident sparked a melee, as tensions boiled over late during the Tigers' 33-point loss to Melbourne.