Master forward bags six

A MANUKA Oval masterclass from Coleman medal frontrunner Jeremy Cameron has helped AFL premiership contenders GWS to defeat St Kilda by 44 points.

Cameron and his team enhanced their impressive records yesterday in the nation’s capital, where the key forward booted six goals as his side triumphed 18.6 (114) to 10.10 (70).

The foundation Giant has kicked a league-best 30 goals in 2019. He starred as reports emerged that Geelong were poised to offer him up to $1 million a season when he became eligible next year for free agency.

Cameron boasts an AFL-record 49 goals at Manuka Oval, while GWS have won 11 of their past 14 games there.

The 26-year-old appeared to be bothered at times by a sore shoulder but it was going to take more than that niggle to stop a best-on-ground performance.

It will likely fuel discussion he could kick 100 goals this season. No forward has brought up the century since Lance Franklin in Hawthorn’s 2008 premiership side.

Aside from a mid-game lapse that gave St Kilda a sniff, GWS coach Leon Cameron’s most-pressing concern was Adam Kennedy’s head knock and Aidan Corr’s ankle injury.

Kennedy was able to walk from the field during the second term, when the motorised stretcher was driven on to the ground, but played no further part in the match.

Corr landed awkwardly in a fourth-quarter marking contest and was unable to put any weight on his right leg.

The Giants stormed to a 43point lead when Jeremy Cameron slotted the opening goal of the second quarter but their frighteningly good start was followed by a gutsy fightback from the visitors.

The Saints would have trimmed the margin to 10 points in the third term if Matthew Parker’s straightforward set shot didn’t hit the post.

Cameron kicked the next two goals to ensure the Giants shored up their top-four spot on the AFL ladder.

The Victorian’s fifth goal was suitable reward for a remarkable solo effort that was arguably the highlight of the game. SAINTS