It was 60 days ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery admonished him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as the club failed to win in six, the question was if his performances were a symptom or a cause of 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, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be decidedly more positive. When the England international drilled in his second to restore Villa's lead, the boss tore off his jacket, opened his arms and roared. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their opening six matches, find themselves just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Challengers?
That’s a particularly tough question to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, while the wins have accumulated.
As per the data, twice all season has the team had an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a club which has put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look curiously susceptible – yet right now the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on their star man to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.
The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, bent right inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.
“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.”
Can It Last?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.
A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge they have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain blasting the football into the net's top corner forever.
A Case for Belief
Could it be another reality whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
- The attacking talent could transform into the force he was during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.
This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital England player.
The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When Rogers faced the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.
