DID a sneaky trick from the Western Bulldogs’ medical team help Lin Jong pass his VFL fitness test?

The Dogs midfielder was left distraught two and a half weeks ago after breaking his right collarbone in his side’s elimination final win over the Eagles.

Just 17 days later and Jong was running out for Footscray, helping them win the premiership and looking to reclaim his spot for next week’s senior grand final.

Jong won the Norm Goss Medal as best on ground in the match after recording 29 disposals and nine marks, but a clever tactic helped him through the match.

Finals Week 1

LISTEN TO THE LATEST FOX FOOTY PODCAST BELOW, OR TAP HERE TO SUBSCRIBE IN ITUNES

In the knowledge his collarbone might be targeted, Jong taped his left shoulder for the contest — and, unsurprisingly, the Scorpions went after it.

Lynden Dunn caused an all-in brawl at quarter time when he bumped Jong in the shoulder.

Jong’s taped left shoulder is targeted by Lynden Dunn. Source: Supplied

But there was just one problem ... Eagle-eyed viewers picked up that the wrong shoulder had been taped — perhaps to trick the Scorpions.

It appears Casey was fooled by the tactic, with his right shoulder (the injured one) coming through unscathed.

And maybe — just maybe — the cheeky trick has earned the midfielder a place in the grand final.