Just eight weeks in the past that Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager berated him for missing a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether his performances were an indicator or a cause of the team's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response was much more joyous. After Rogers curled home his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss tore off his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, are somehow just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Legitimate Challengers?
It remains an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. History, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.
According to statistical analysis, twice all season have Villa posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a side who have put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look strangely fragile – yet at the moment the margins are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to save the day with some crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again versus the Red Devils.
His opener originated from a superb shot, arced right inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.
“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opposition managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.
A reversion to average could be the biggest rival they have to face in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the football into the net's top corner forever.
A Case for Belief
Could it be another reality where, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
- The attacking talent might become the force he resembled during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial England player.
This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When Rogers faced the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.