It was 60 days prior that Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery admonished him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, the question was if Rogers' form were a symptom or the source for the team's more general malaise.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. As Rogers curled home his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The team continued to ten wins in a row , having failed to win their opening six fixtures, now sit only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?
This is a particularly tough query to answer. History, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, while the wins have stacked up.
As per Opta, in only two games has the side posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a team which has put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear curiously susceptible – but currently the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach seems to be to trade blows with rivals and then rely on their star man to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. It happened at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more when facing Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents had more shots and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.
A reversion to average could be the biggest rival the club must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players could still rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
- The winger might become the performer he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, nobody thought Rogers by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital England player.
The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the hero faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.
