A mere eight weeks prior when Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as Unai Emery admonished him over not reading a pass in behind. Back then, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a sign or the source for Villa's broader struggles.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
In the latest match, however, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. As the in-form star swept in his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning any of their first six matches, are somehow only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Challengers?
It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the positive results have piled up.
As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the side had an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side who have strung together 10 in a row, they seem weirdly vulnerable – but right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for their talisman to bail them out with some precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more versus Manchester United.
His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.
“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. Against United, Manchester United registered more shots and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.
A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival the club must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the football into the net's top corner indefinitely.
A Case for Belief
Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still find their top level.
- The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The winger may rediscover the performer he was in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
Yet, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought Rogers now would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the match-winner positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.
