Middlesbrough head coach Kim Hellberg delivered a frank and reflective assessment after his side’s hard-fought stalemate against Blackburn Rovers, admitting that a “heart-over-head” approach at key moments cost Boro the chance of all three points.
Speaking after the final whistle, Hellberg praised his players’ commitment and intensity but acknowledged that emotion occasionally overrode tactical discipline. “The desire was there, the passion was there, but football also demands clarity,” he explained. “At times we played with too much heart and not enough control, especially in our decision-making in the final third.”
Boro enjoyed long spells of possession and created promising openings, yet lapses in concentration and rushed choices allowed Blackburn to remain in the contest. Hellberg pointed to moments where patience was required, particularly when protecting the ball and managing transitions. “We forced passes when we didn’t need to, and that gave them momentum,” he said.
Despite the frustrations, the Middlesbrough boss remained optimistic. He highlighted the team’s resilience, defensive organisation, and growing identity under his leadership. “These are the kinds of games that help us learn who we are,” Hellberg added. “If we balance our passion with smarter decisions, results will follow.”
For Boro supporters, the message was clear: progress is being made, but refinement is still required to turn strong performances into consistent wins.
