It was 60 days ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery scolded him for not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause of Villa's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst was far more favourable. When the England international drilled in his second to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their opening six matches, are somehow just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?
That’s a particularly tough question to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.
As per the data, twice all season have Villa posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side which has put together 10 in a row, the Villans seem strangely fragile – yet currently the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic seems to be to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. It happened against Leeds, it happened in London, and once more against United.
His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be 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?
Logic says not. In the recent win, the opponents had more shots and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.
A statistical correction could be the biggest rival Villa must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting the football into the top corner week in, week out.
A Case for Belief
Could it be a different scenario in which, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures could still find their top level.
- The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he resembled during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned Rogers by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.
This winning streak is to be savoured exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the hero positioned himself before the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.
