I still think the writers did that on purpose with Andrea, feeding on the fan hate for the character. I'd be surprised if they didn't purposefully introduce another character that fans will hate next season. People like to find someone to shit on, and it's usually not the villain who is instead respected for being badass.

I also liked the small scale mission with Rick, Carl, and Michonne. It allowed for some bonding and character development, which I'd like to see with some of the lesser characters. Here's hoping Beth gets a love interest, though no one in the current group really qualifies except maybe Rick.