A mere eight weeks ago when the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him over not reading a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were an indicator or a cause of the side's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, however, the sideline response was far more favourable. When the in-form star drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, are somehow only three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?
That’s a particularly tough query to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.
Per Opta, in only two games has the side posted an xG notably superior than the other team. For a team that have just won 10 in a row, Villa appear curiously susceptible – however right now the margins are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with two clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.
The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first 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. During the latest victory, the opponents managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.
A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge Villa must confront in the near future. Their key man, surely, cannot maintain drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is a different scenario where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The winger may rediscover the force he showed during his peak.
- The defensive duo are due to return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would be third at Christmas. And most definitely back in October, nobody thought the young forward now would be leading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.
The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. When the hero positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
