Just eight weeks in the past that the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as his coach berated him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, the question was if Rogers' form were a symptom or a cause of Villa's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. After the in-form star swept in his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. The team continued to a 10th successive win and having failed to win any of their first six games, are somehow a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
This is a particularly tough proposition to address. History, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, while the victories have accumulated.
According to statistical analysis, twice all season have Villa posted an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a club who have just won 10 in a row, Villa seem strangely fragile – yet right now the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with rivals and wait for their star man to bail them out with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opposition had more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.
A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent the club must confront in the near future. Rogers, surely, will not continue to drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be an alternative path where, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still find their top level.
- The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he showed in Germany.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky defence.
Maybe within that lies the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.
This winning streak is to be savoured exactly since it appears so improbable. As the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.
