Just eight weeks ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery berated him for missing a through-ball. At that point, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or the source for 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, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. After the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, find themselves a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?
It remains an exceptionally difficult query to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been completely commanding during this run, while the positive results have stacked up.
Per statistical analysis, twice all season has the team posted an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a team which has strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear curiously susceptible – but at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
The current approach looks like to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping Rogers to bail them out with a couple of clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and again when facing Manchester United.
His opener came from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.
“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. Against United, the opponents registered more efforts and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.
A statistical correction may well be the greatest opponent they have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Potential for Growth
Could it be a different scenario where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still return to peak condition.
- The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he was in Germany.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.
This could contain the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as an essential player for the national team.
This remarkable period is to be savoured precisely because it feels so unlikely. When Rogers faced the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.