AFL 2024: Brisbane star Charlie Cameron determined to correct form

A Brisbane star admits his own form has been under par this season but he’s seeing great strides taken by fellow forwards.

Brisbane star Charlie Cameron says he’s unsatisfied with his form this season. Picture: Russell Freeman / Getty Images

Lions livewire Charlie Cameron admits his form has been a “mixed bag” this year, but his frustrations have been tempered by his role in helping Brisbane’s emerging crop of forwards shine in the AFL.

Cameron’s goal tally of 30 in 19 appearances this season has left him feeling unsatisfied on a personal level.

However, in a season of enforced transition at the Lions due to season-ending knee injuries suffered by a host of players, including fellow forward Linc McCarthy, 30-year-old Cameron is embracing a “different role” as he takes the likes of young attacking weapons Kai Lohmann, Logan Morris and Henry Smith under his wing.

“At times it’s hard as a small forward because you just want to go get the ball and kick goals,” he said.

Brisbane star Charlie Cameron says he’s unsatisfied with his 30 goals from 19 games this season. Picture: Russell Freeman / Getty Images

“In the past, a couple of years ago, I would have got frustrated but I’m just trying to find a way to keep myself engaged in the game, talking to and helping blokes set up, bringing my pressure and celebrating the little things.

“For me, it’s been a mixed bag this year, a bit up and down, but I’m trying to play a different role this year.

“With Linc going down, it has put a bit more onus on the young blokes coming through, and as long as I’m playing my role for the team trying to bring pressure and helping those young blokes, it’s a good thing.”

With the resurgent Lions chasing a ninth successive win on Sunday at Marvel Stadium against St Kilda, Cameron is hopeful his patience and dedication will be rewarded at the business end of the season.

Cameron says Brisbane’s young forward talent including Kai Lohmann (left) and Logan Morris (right) is keeping senior players ‘on our toes’. Picture: Daniel Carson / Getty Images

“I’ve just got to keep persisting, and when the big moments come up, hopefully at the end of the year, I’m there at the right time proving a point,” he said.

“I’ll get my chances. I’ve just got to stick with what I’m doing and trust the process during the week and leading up to the games.”

Regardless of whether the Lions go one better this season by winning the premiership, Cameron said the future was bright for the club with the experience gained this year by emerging talents such as Lohmann, Morris, Smith, Shadeau Brain and Bruce Reville.

“It shows where the club’s at,” he said.

“At VFL level, all the players there are playing their role, and when they’ve got their chance in the AFL, they’ve executed their roles, which is good because it’s putting pressure on the players in the AFL, really challenging us to keep on our toes and keep our spot.”

In further good news for the Lions, co-captain Harris Andrews is set to be available for selection this weekend after missing last Saturday’s 28-point win over Gold Coast after entering concussion protocols.

Originally published as AFL 2024: Brisbane star Charlie Cameron determined to correct form