Charlie Cameron and the Brisbane Lions kicking their way to AFL success
The Brisbane Lions once struggled with accuracy when kicking for goal. But this season in particular it has been a different story.
AFL
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Brisbane star Charlie Cameron says it’s no surprise the Lions’ accuracy in front of goal has improved in their superb start to the AFL season.
Heading into Sunday’s clash against Hawthorn in Launceston, the Lions have won eight from nine to only be trailing undefeated leaders and reigning premiers Melbourne on the ladder.
Brisbane’s lofty standing has been helped by their goal-kicking accuracy.
Once among the competition’s worst teams for conversion of goal-scoring chances, the Lions are now close to a 60 per cent success rate in terms of converting their opportunities.
Cameron, who kicked four goals and one behind in Brisbane’s 36-point weekend win over his former club Adelaide, said the key to the Lions’ improved accuracy was a greater “connection” around the ground led to shots closer to goal.
“We’ve been able to get (the ball) inside 30 (metres), which gives us a better chance to kick goals,” Cameron said.
“Our connection with our midfielders and defenders has been building and building each game.
“We’re going along well, and we’ll have a good challenge in Tassie this weekend (against the Hawks).”
Cameron has kicked 23 goals and 10 behinds this season, with six of his one-pointers coming in Brisbane’s 108-point demolition of the Kangaroos last month.
“T was disappointed in my goalkicking (against North Melbourne,” he said.
“I’ve just tried to focus on my mindset, (and) my goalkicking.
“Not too much has changed – I’m just trying to kick it through the big sticks.”
Cameron was delighted to have reconnected with fellow forward Eric Hipwood, who after 10 months out with a serious knee injury returned against the Crows.
“He did well, He was cramping at the end (but) he got through and he gave me a couple of goals, which was pretty good, and I’ll shout him coffee this week,” Cameron said.
The Lions will wear their 2022 Indigenous guernsey in their next two matches as part of Sir Doug Nicholls round celebrations.
“I’m pretty proud to wear this jumper. (Lions great) Darryl White designed it, so it’s pretty special and he’s done an incredible job with it,” Cameron said.
“I’m proud to represent the Brisbane Lions and my people.”
Originally published as Charlie Cameron and the Brisbane Lions kicking their way to AFL success
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