It was two months ago when the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as Unai Emery admonished him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, the question was if his performances were a symptom or the reason for the team's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely decidedly more positive. After the in-form star swept in his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their opening six games, find themselves only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?
This is an exceptionally difficult question to address. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, while the victories have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, twice all season have Villa had an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a team that have strung together ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear strangely fragile – however at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with rivals before hoping their talisman to save the day with two clinical strikes. It happened at Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened versus Manchester United.
His opener originated from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.
“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?
Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.
A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent they will encounter in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain drilling the ball into the top corner forever.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists a different scenario in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still find their top level.
- The main striker could start scoring again.
- The winger may rediscover the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, bolstering a periodically leaky backline.
Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would sit third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought the midfielder by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while looking like a vital player for the national team.
This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the North End at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.
