Mitchell was outstanding at half in the games he played for us last season
Yeah I thought so too - although I only thing he played one game at half. Got something like 3 try assists out of that too IIRC.
Not bad for a fringe first grade hooker who hasn't played in the halves since he was a teenager... I think Mitchell surprised a lot of people last season.
If we didn't already have so many halves at the club, I'd be tempted to experiment with Mitchell at halfback longer term and see how he handles it.
Having said that, this is the spine I'd like to see next year:
1. Bowen
6. Thurston
7. Thompson
9. Mitchell
14. Moore
Thompson to be given a super-simple role like Adam Reynolds was this year. Focus on getting the kicking game right and tackling hard. Leave the flashy stuff for Thurston and Bowen.
I think Ray has the potential to be a very good half, but he just hasn't been able to make much of an impact in attack, even though we've seen glimpses of his skills. I say give him 6-7 games and if he still can't manage it, then we cross his name off the halfback list permanently and go with either Morgan or Lui from then on. Thompson's had enough chances - time to deliver.
Hopefully a simplified role for him will help.