Just two months ago when Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager scolded him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained if his performances were a symptom or the source of the side's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, however, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. When the in-form star drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their opening six games, find themselves a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Hopefuls?
It remains an exceptionally difficult question to answer. History, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.
As per the data, on just two occasions has the side registered an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a team who have just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans look curiously susceptible – yet currently the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach seems to be to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to save the day with two precise efforts. It happened at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again versus the Red Devils.
His opener originated from a brilliant finish, curled precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.
“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”
Can It Last?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents managed more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.
Regression to the mean could be the greatest opponent they will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists another reality whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
This could contain the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, nobody expected this. Few believed the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial England player.
The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. As Rogers faced the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.
