A mere two months in the past that the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while the Villa manager scolded him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as the club went six without a win, the question was if his performances were a sign or a cause of the team's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, however, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. As the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their opening six fixtures, are somehow a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Challengers?
It remains a particularly tough proposition to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been completely commanding during this run, even as the victories have accumulated.
According to Opta, twice all season have Villa had an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a team which has just won a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear curiously susceptible – however currently the margins are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
The current approach seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for their star man to save the day with two crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and once more against United.
His opener came from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.
A statistical correction might be the biggest rival Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Potential for Growth
Could it be another reality where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still find their top level.
- The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho might become the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.
Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers now would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like an essential player for the national team.
This winning streak is to be savoured exactly since it appears so improbable. As the hero positioned himself before the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.
