Just 60 days ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach scolded him over not reading a through-ball. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained if his displays were a symptom or the reason of the side's more general malaise.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, however, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. As the in-form star drilled in his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and roared. Villa marched on to ten wins in a row and despite not winning their opening six fixtures, find themselves only three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?
It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, while the wins have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the team registered an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side that have just won 10 in a row, the Villans seem strangely fragile – however currently the margins are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy seems to be to exchange chances with the opposition before hoping their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.
His opener originated from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opposition managed more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.
A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot maintain thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists a different scenario where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
- The attacking talent could transform into the force he showed in Germany.
- The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.
Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And most definitely earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like a crucial player for the national team.
This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers stood in front of the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.
