It was not Saints plan to play these players as much as they did and in any case they did get the odd break in the season when more senior players were available.

There is also the chance they could experience the "2nd season syndrome" that commonly happens to young players who make an impact in their first long spell in the first team. Other teams will be analysing their play and next year will be harder for them.

So I think the idea we can just drop Mellor into a half back slot full time is putting far too much pressure on him and will backfire eventually.

The idea Deacs and him can share the role is also a non-starter either IMO as whenever Deacs plays the problems pointed out by W/L/A in his what we need to do to move forward thread will be back in the team.

The solution I prefer as you will know is to move Sam to 6 and find a full back which could even be Roberts now he has had his operation.

However how about this for a plan?

Sam to 6 Russell to 1. To give Russell a break, Sam to 1 Mellor to 6. To give Mellor a break Sam to 6 Russell back in the side to 1 and so on and so on.

Pace in all positions, two young players bloodied but not having to take the slots full time. Seems like an idea.

I agree with you he was at widnes lat year and he was prbably the best player there creating things, can read a game, good kicking game and also good support play.

I was of the opinion that he should have got some game time this year. Apparently Powell is just as good, if not better. They should both be allowed to compete for the shirt next season.

Any recruitment should be focused on Prop and Centre in my opinion. I'd also give Logan a shot at playing hooker off the bench, but that's just me.