Jackson Labels Kilmarnock Loss ‘Alarming’ and ‘Unacceptable,’ Backs Critchley to ‘Get It Right’

Darren Jackson, a former striker for Hearts, described the Tynecastle club’s defeat to Kilmarnock, who played with 10 men, as “alarming” but expressed “no doubt” that Neil Critchley will “get it right.” Jackson, an ex-Scotland international, played for the Gorgie side from 1999 to 2001, scoring 11 goals in 64 appearances. Hearts maintained a one-man advantage for nearly the entire match but ultimately failed to secure any points, leaving them one point adrift at the bottom of the Premiership standings. “It’s a massive blow,” Jackson stated to BBC Radio Scotland. “It was unacceptable. I was lucky enough to work with Neil Critchley for three years at Blackpool and he’s a fantastic coach. I’ve no doubt he’ll get it right.” He continued, “They’ll look at it and say they’ve got so many games, but Hearts have to be in Europe every year and Hearts have to be successful, and that brings so many games, so you just have to get on with it.” Jackson concluded his assessment by saying, “Just now, it is alarming and it’s maybe players not handling pressure.” Hearts are scheduled to host Moldovan club Petrocub in the Uefa Conference League on Thursday. A victory in this match is almost certainly required for the team to progress in European competition beyond Christmas, a feat not achieved since 1989.