It was two months in the past when the Villa attacker was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as his coach scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, with the team went six without a win, the question was whether his displays were an indicator or the source of the team's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. As the in-form star drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, now sit a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?
That’s a particularly tough proposition to address. History, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.
As per the data, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a team who have just won ten consecutive victories, they seem curiously susceptible – but currently the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with rivals and wait for Rogers to bail them out with some crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred in London, and again versus Manchester United.
His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized 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?
Logic says not. In the recent win, the opposition had more efforts and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.
A statistical correction might be the biggest rival they have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be another reality in which, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs could still return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he was during his peak.
- The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial England player.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. As the hero faced the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.
