Just 60 days ago when the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while his coach admonished him for not reading a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained if his performances were a symptom or a cause of the side's more general malaise.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. When the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his coat, opened his arms and roared. Villa marched on to ten wins in a row and after failing to win their opening six games, are somehow a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Title Contenders?
This is an exceptionally difficult question to answer. History, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.
According to the data, twice all season has the side registered an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a club which has strung together 10 in a row, they appear weirdly vulnerable – yet right now the fine lines are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic appears to be to trade blows with rivals before hoping Rogers to save the day with two clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener capitalizing 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents had more efforts 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 most significant challenge the club must confront in the near future. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the football into the top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is a different scenario where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.
- The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho might become the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.
This could contain the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine Rogers now would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital England player.
The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
