I sense your frustration.  But 45 SL in midfield first match, and 49 SL in midfield 2nd match while playing Long Ball may not be best use of that SL?

One of those big SL MF could have done a shift out of position in defence for you.  Maybe a sweeper doesn't suit long Ball so much also?

I can give you a pair of 7/2 midfielders who can stand and watch your Long Balls for 90 minutes?

Someone may know the number stats better, but maybe Long Ball doesn't suit your small roster?