It was two months prior that Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a sign or the source of the team's more general malaise.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
On Sunday, however, the sideline response was much more joyous. When Rogers curled home his second strike to restore Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six games, are somehow a mere three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?
That’s a rather hard proposition to address. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant this season, while the positive results have stacked up.
As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the team registered an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a side which has put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa look strangely fragile – however right now the margins are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with the opposition before hoping Rogers to rescue them with some precise efforts. It happened at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again when facing Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized 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?
Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more shots and more shots on target. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.
A statistical correction might be the greatest opponent the club have to face in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing the ball into the net's top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be an alternative path whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs may yet rediscover their best form.
- The main striker could start scoring again.
- The attacking talent could transform into the performer he was during his peak.
- The defensive duo are set to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.
Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as a crucial England player.
This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.
