Just 60 days prior that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while Unai Emery scolded him for not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason of the side's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, however, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. When Rogers drilled in his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The team marched on to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?
It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. History, a general sense of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.
According to the data, in only two games has the side posted an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side which has put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look curiously susceptible – but right now the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on their star man to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and once more when facing United.
Rogers' first goal came from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Can It Last?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.
A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival the club have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing the football into the top corner indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.
This could contain the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.
The current run is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. As Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.
