Chris Newman’s knee injury was the only real wound for Richmond after a poor start to their AFL pre-season that lacked intent.

Newman was due to have scans on Saturday, but it appeared he had nothing more than a jarred knee.

The veteran utility hyperextended the knee in a marking contest during the third term of Friday night’s 14-point loss to Melbourne at Etihad Stadium.

He had been one of Richmond’s few good performers, playing in attack and kicking two goals.

While lowly Melbourne were outstanding with the upset win, the Tigers at times seemed keen to help them.

Richmond added to their woes at the start of the final term by having one player too many on the field.

That cost them a goal and coach Damien Hardwick later said the embarrassing mistake summed up their night.

Hardwick could shrug off the interchange error, but few men in the AFL are as competitive as the Richmond coach.

It was no surprise he gave his players a spray at three-quarter time, given so many of them looked listless in their first pre-season game.

“It was just intent,” Hardwick said.

“I often try to remain really composed, but I was disappointed with their overall intent.

“That’s a big thing in footy games – if you don’t bring it, you don’t often win.”

One positive was Greater Western Sydney recruit Anthony Miles, who boosted his chances of being elevated from Richmond’s rookie list with a great game.

The inside midfielder led Richmond’s clearances with eight.

“But you’re probably a little bit disappointed when a young kid comes along and leads your clearances and contested ball,” Hardwick said.

“Credit to him – he did a good job.”

Richmond’s next official pre-season game will be on February 22 against Collingwood in Wangaratta.

Jack Riewoldt, Reece Conca and Daniel Jackson are likely to return for the match.