WESTERN Bulldogs youngster Aaron Naughton finished his night early against Brisbane on Saturday.
The impressive first-year player rolled his right ankle in the first quarter and was helped from the ground by medical staff.
Naughton's ankle had rolled outward under him when he attempted to smother a ball and collided with Lion Eric Hipwood.
It’s a big blow for the 18-year-old, who has impressed in his first season, playing all eight games as a key defender in an inexperienced backline.
Coach Luke Beveridge said while scans were required, the club was hoping it was a relatively minor injury.
"The docs have said they're hoping it's not too long," Beveridge said.
"They said they think he's strained those lateral ligaments, but it's too early to tell. They'll obviously scan it, and we'll give you an update as soon as possible.
"Some of those ankles can be quick turnarounds and he's never had one before, so hopefully it's not too long."
It's still a big concern for the Dogs, who already have defenders Easton Wood (hamstring), Marcus Adams (ankle), Dale Morris (knee) and Kieran Collins (ankle) on the sidelines.
