Just eight weeks in the past when the Villa attacker found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as his coach scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, with the team went six without a win, the question was whether Rogers' form were a sign or a cause of the team's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, though, the manager's outburst was far more favourable. When the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win and despite not winning any of their first six games, are somehow just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?
It remains a rather hard query to answer. History, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the wins have piled up.
Per the data, in only two games has the side posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a club who have strung together 10 in a row, they look curiously susceptible – however right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their star man to save the day with two crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again against Manchester United.
His opener came from a superb shot, curled just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“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?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, Manchester United had more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.
A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge the club have to face in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists another reality whereby, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The winger may rediscover the force he was in Germany.
- The defensive duo are set to return from injury, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder now would be spearheading a title charge while looking like an essential Three Lions star.
This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. As Rogers faced the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.
