A mere 60 days in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery scolded him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the source of the team's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, however, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. When the England international swept in his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their opening six fixtures, find themselves only three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Hopefuls?
That’s an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, even as the victories have accumulated.
Per the data, in only two games has the team registered an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a club who have just won 10 in a row, the Villans look curiously susceptible – however currently the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for their star man to rescue them with some clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again versus the Red Devils.
His opener originated from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of his first capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Logic says not. Against United, the opponents had more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.
A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge they must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing his shots into the top corner indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Could it be another reality whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs might still return to peak condition.
- The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
- The winger could transform into the player he showed in Germany.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.
Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
But then, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital England player.
The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero positioned himself before the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.
