The first-class fighting qualities of Richmond star key defender Alex Rance were highlighted in last Friday night’s loss to Port Adelaide at Adelaide Oval.

Rance appeared up against it early on when his opponent, powerfully-built Port spearhead Charlie Dixon, out-bustled him, clunked some strong marks and kicked a goal.

But Rance, in typical style, fought back superbly after that initial onslaught by the dangerous Dixon.

He was able to negate Dixon’s influence and also impact the contest, as he does so frequently.

The four-time All-Australian finished the match with 17 disposals, including 10 contested possessions, 10 intercepts, six marks and 304 metres gained. And he ensured that Dixon didn’t add to his one-goal tally after quarter-time.

Dixon used his bulk to crash packs and still be a handy contributor throughout the night for the home team, but Rance took the points in an absorbing, good, old-fashioned one-on-one duel.