Me too Ralph.
He's not perfect. I know his deficiencies, and still have the Wisbey summary tucked away. I agree there is a tendency still to bang it on the boot, but skill-wise I have no complaints, other than penetration by foot, which I believe has improved. And I have felt he hits his targets by foot better than anyone else in the side, except for maybe Black, and Hasleby on song. Vision-wise, I reckon he gets hit for two reasons- getting over the ball, and secondly he gets targeted.
He has held on to the ball a couple of times while running lines, but at least he was being creative when Pavlich was covered, and the second option wasn't forthcoming. If Pavlich is on- it goes to him every time, and I've seen them going to him lace out. Surely you have too?
He had eight good (some very good) games on the trot prior to the derby after returning from injury, and has done very well on the HBF prior to Friday night. Name me another 176cm HB flanker in the comp. I can't.
Anyway, your frustration is noted, and we'll have to hope I am right and you are wrong.