Just two months prior when the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while his coach admonished him over missing a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a sign or the reason for the team's more general malaise.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, however, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. After the England international swept in his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their opening six games, now sit a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?
That’s a rather hard question to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been completely commanding during this run, even as the wins have accumulated.
According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa posted an xG notably superior than the other team. For a team who have just won a ten-match winning streak, they look strangely fragile – yet currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent before hoping Rogers to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again against United.
His opener came from a brilliant finish, bent precisely inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
Can It Last?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.
A reversion to average could be the biggest rival Villa have to face in the near future. Their key man, surely, will not continue to blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he resembled in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.
This could contain the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward now would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential England player.
The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. As the match-winner faced the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.
