Cameron Rayner says Brisbane Lions’ US trip drama was ‘blown out of proportion’

Brisbane Lions star Cameron Rayner says the fallout of the club’s off-season US trip has galvanised the club and issued a frank message to critics who took aim during the drama.

Brisbane Lions players on US trip

Brisbane Lions star Cam Rayner says the off-season trip to the US that dominated headlines last month was “blown out of proportion” and players “shouldn’t have to respond to critics” about their holiday happenings.

Rayner was one of 10 Lions players on the October-November trip to the US, which made news after it was revealed pictures taken during the trip had been accessed by a partner of one of the players back home in Australia.

Brisbane Lions players on US trip.

That reportedly caused friction within the playing group and, coupled with the club’s 0-3 start to the season, had the Lions under the microscope.

But after consecutive wins over North Melbourne and Melbourne, the Lions have hit form ahead of Saturday night’s clash with Geelong and Rayner says the whole saga is now behind them.

The Lions had to deny fallout from the trip was behind their 0-3 start.

“There’s been a little bit of mayo put on the whole thing,” Rayner told Brisbane radio hosts Stav, Abby and Matt on their B105 breakfast show on Friday.

“It’s been blown out of proportion. As a group … it’s brought us closer if anything and you know, I feel like we’ve responded really well.

“Everything goes quiet when you’re playing good footy, so we just need to keep doing that.

“We get to do whatever we want in our off time so we shouldn’t have to respond to critics or respond to anyone over there.”

Rayner starred in the Lions’ 22-point win over Melbourne at the MCG last Thursday.

The former No. 1 pick has been tipped for more midfield minutes after his standout display in the engine room for the Lions against the Demons.

Brisbane hosts the unbeaten Cats at the Gabba on Saturday night.

The Lions have not won at home so far this season, dropping games to Carlton and Collingwood.