I know this has come up in other posts but just wondering what peoples opinions are? Do we back the academy system and play mellor or powell or go after a more established halfback? and if so who can we/should we get?

I think we should sign someone personally. But only the right man for the right price. No panic buying.

wont be a top aussie, and the only scrum halfs out of contract in SL or Dureau and i think brough and smith.

I'd take Dureau

FYI Brough is signed to Hudds until end of 2014

Thanks to the title of this thread, I can't get Pinball Wizard out of my head now . . .

Would love to see Dureau, but don't think it's likely... It's a case of great chance of silverware vs off chance of silverware but a lovely life in the sun. Looks to be enjoying his rugby in France.

Brough is as said, contracted to Hudds till 2014... but contracts mean nothing these days (see Joel!)

Smith? Awesome pass, shocking defence, and mediocre attitude, no thanks! (although saying that, haven't watched enough of him this year to comment on his attitude, and I seem to hear good things about him)

So who else?

Jamie Soward

Me too

We must sign a halfback. It's not an option not to IMO because Mellor and Powell may be ready for some chances but they're not ready to replace a player like Tommy Leuluai on a fulltime basis.

If we sign a halfback and get Finch tied up that will leave us with 3 experienced options in the halfback and hooking area which is the same as this season. That still leaves plenty of chances for the youngsters as we've seen this season with Mellor and Logan getting gametime in competitive matches and also Powell in pre season.

Of the players linked with us my preference in order would be-

1- Dureau
2- Brough
3- Soward
4- Smith

The superleague experience of the first two would make me choose them over Soward.

Please god not brough

Danny Brough is a great player

I'd just be concerned about his attitude. He's been at an awful lot of clubs for such a young talented player.

He'll take the chance of silverware - And be a fitting repacement for LuLu.
The feelers are already out, so i hear.....

Brough kicking game is exemplary. Reminds me of Deacon circa. 2003-5.

Mellor and Powell are nowhere near ready to play first team football week in week out, especially in such a pivotal role.

Sign a quality halfback with the money freed up from Tommy, Amos and (possibly) Fielden. With that sort of cash, we could pretty much take our pick.