A mere 60 days ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained if his performances were a sign or the reason of the side's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, however, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. As Rogers drilled in his second strike to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?
This is a rather hard query to address. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.
According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a club that have strung together ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – however at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for their star man to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more against United.
His opener originated from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced 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.”
Can It Last?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United had more shots and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those games.
A reversion to average might be the biggest rival Villa must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on drilling the ball into the top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent might become the force he was during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a periodically leaky backline.
Maybe within that lies the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while looking like an essential England player.
The current run is to be savoured exactly since it feels so unlikely. As the hero positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are rare in football and must be appreciated.
