Hearts and the Low Block: Could Kingsley and Smith Hold the Keys?
In recent weeks, Hearts have struggled to create goalscoring opportunities against teams deploying a low block. The style of play has become turgid - and fans are justifiably unhappy. However, in Michael Smith and Stephen Kingsley, Hearts could have the solution to the problem - if they are encouraged to get forward more often. First, it is prudent to address the problem that Hearts are facing - the low block. Given Hearts are overwhelming favourites to win the league, opposition teams understandably look to sit in to try and frustrate Hearts and then nick a goal on the counter. The approach has allowed Dunfermline, Raith Rovers and Queen of the South to take points off the Jambos. When Hearts face this challenge, they often make it too easy for the opposition. There is a real lack of intensity which is easy for the other side to defend. Take this passage of play from the 3-2 defeat by Raith back in January. Hearts have comfortable possession in their half and work it backwa...