Just eight weeks ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager admonished him over missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a sign or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. After the in-form star curled home his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa continued to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, are somehow only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?
That’s a rather hard question to answer. The historical record, a general sense of the club, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the positive results have piled up.
Per the data, twice all season has the side registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a team which has strung together 10 in a row, the Villans look curiously susceptible – yet right now the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic appears to be to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for their star man to rescue them with some crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and it happened against United.
His opener came from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the post from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one 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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more efforts and more shots on target. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.
A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent the club must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is another reality in which, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet return to peak condition.
- The main striker might resume scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he showed during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would be third at Christmas. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned Rogers now would be spearheading a title charge while looking like a crucial Three Lions star.
This remarkable period is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner faced the home supporters at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
