It was two months in the past when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery admonished him for not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether his displays were an indicator or the reason of the side'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, however, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. When the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, Emery discarded his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, find themselves a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Hopefuls?
That’s an exceptionally difficult question to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.
According to the data, twice all season has the side had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a club who have just won 10 in a row, the Villans look curiously susceptible – but at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic seems to be to trade blows with an opponent before hoping Rogers to bail them out with some precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more versus Manchester United.
His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first capitalizing 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.
A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent they must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, will not continue to drilling the ball into the net's top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.
- The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he resembled in Germany.
- The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky backline.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.
This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it seems so surreal. As the match-winner stood in front of the North End at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.
