Essendon defender Jordan Ridley stunningly shook off a concerning injury to return to play, only to be subbed out shortly after his courageous effort.
Ridley suffered a suspected hyper-extension of his knee in Sunday's matchup with Adelaide and managed to bring himself back into the game after the initial setback.
A marking contest early into the third term against Crows forward Taylor Walker saw Ridley land awkwardly on his left leg, with vision of the contest making for worrying viewing for Dons fans and Ridley's teammates.
Ridley was left clutching his knee on the surface of Marvel Stadium before being assisted off the ground and into the rooms by Essendon's medical staff. He soon reappeared at ground level running on the sidelines before being brought back into the game.
Minutes after his return to the field, Ridley was subbed out of the match, being unable to run at full speed on his hampered leg.
Ridley had started the match in fine form, collecting 16 possessions and five marks before going down with the injury.
Meanwhile, Essendon defender Mason Redman was assessed for a hamstring concern during the third term.
The Bombers brought midfielder Dylan Shiel into the game as the tactical sub in place of Ridley toward the end of the third term.