A mere two months ago when Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as the Villa manager admonished him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his performances were a symptom or a cause for the side'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 sideline response was decidedly more positive. When the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their opening six fixtures, now sit a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?
It remains a rather hard proposition to answer. History, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been completely commanding during this run, even as the victories have stacked up.
Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team had an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a club that have just won 10 in a row, Villa appear strangely fragile – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping Rogers to rescue them with some precise efforts. It happened at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, curled just inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Is It Sustainable?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more shots and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those games.
A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge the club have to face in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, cannot keep on blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he showed in Germany.
- The defensive duo are due to return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.
This could contain the potential for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial England player.
The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
