A mere 60 days prior that the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as the Villa manager berated him over not reading a through-ball. At that point, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a sign or the source for the team's wider issues.
“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 decidedly more positive. As the England international curled home his second strike to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row and having failed to win their opening six games, now sit a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Challengers?
It remains a rather hard proposition to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been wholly dominant in many games, while the positive results have stacked up.
According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a team that have put together 10 in a row, Villa look curiously susceptible – yet right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to save the day with two crisp finishes. It happened away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and again when facing United.
The initial strike stemmed from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing 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?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents had more efforts and more efforts on goal. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.
A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge Villa must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the top corner week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists another reality in which, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.
- The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he showed in Germany.
- The defensive duo are due to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely earlier this season, nobody thought the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial England player.
This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and must be appreciated.
