Yep. Currently better than Roby.

Spot on, his passing accuracy and general attacking play has improved immensely.

On the whole he's been playing off the back of a much improved ruck speed this season and he's always looked better when we've had a quick PTB.

Early days yet but so far deffinately in the running for player of the season for us.

Playing with better forwards in front of him has helped him no end.

In answer to the original question, No. He's steady and improving, but certainly isn't the best. His engine and work rate certainly is though

Needs to kick more, and early.

Isnt that down to the halves?

Why does it have to be down to the halves to kick? Houghton is arguably our best distance kicker we have and isn't far behind Sneyd with grubber kicks.
He's also our best chance at getting 40/20s and was unlucky against Leeds not to get one. I see no issue in letting Houghton have kicking responsibility.

Then we'll agree to disagree, if the halves aren't cutting it in terms of kicking that needs addressing IMHO.

We could have Thurston and Cronk as our halves doing the business in regards to kicking, doesn't mean Houghton can't muck in with kicks when he is as good at it as he is. It's another option which will keep the defence guessing. Don't see the problem with it at all tbh.

No problem with anyone taking an opportunity to kick, just think hooker has other responsibilities that are higher priority...