It was 60 days prior when Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery admonished him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, the question was whether his performances were a sign or a cause for the team's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. After the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, now sit a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Challengers?
That’s a particularly tough proposition to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a side that have just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – however currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach appears to be to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping their star man to save the day with some precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more against United.
His opener originated from an exquisite effort, bent just inside the post from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Can It Last?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents registered more shots and more efforts on goal. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.
Regression to the mean might be the greatest opponent they must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the ball into the net's top corner week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be an alternative path where, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent could transform into the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.
Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, nobody thought the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. As the hero faced the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.
