Mercury 25 HP 4 Stroke shift cable slop

[RPHughes]

I have a 2008 Grizzly CC Jon boat with a 25 HP 4 stroke. Put it in the shop last year and had all of the steering, shift/throttle cables replaced ( due to age, rust etc. ) along with other service work. First time on the water I noticed that after putting into forward gear that I had to advance the shifter at least half way or slightly more of the total travel before the engine would accelerate, and will not reach upper speeds achieved before cables were replaced. It also seems to get to full much quicker when putting into reverse. Shop said it's most likely where it's supposed to be but drop it off and we'll get to it whenever we can. I decided against that option. Used only 2 times ( unfortunately ) and then it went back in storage. Forgot about the issue until using it for the first time a couple of weeks ago and being reintroduced to the issue. I am mechanically inclined ( broad statement ) but not in marine. I have searched for videos but did not find anything for this year, make and model. I'm tempted to just jump right into it on a seek and destroy mission but that's what usually happens. Any help or tips would be appreciated. Thanks.