Just two months in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while his coach admonished him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, the question was if his displays were a sign or a cause of the side's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, though, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. When the England international drilled in his second to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery tore off his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. The team marched on to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?
It remains a particularly tough question to address. The historical record, a general sense of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the wins have piled up.
According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side registered an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a side who have just won 10 in a row, the Villans look strangely fragile – yet currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach appears to be to trade blows with the opposition and then rely on their star man to bail them out with a couple of precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and again versus United.
The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“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?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United had more shots and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.
A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge the club must confront in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet rediscover their best form.
- The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he showed in Germany.
- The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial England player.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero stood in front of the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
