Just 60 days prior when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while his coach scolded him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, as the club went six without a win, the question was if his performances were a symptom or a cause for the team's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, however, the manager's outburst was far more favourable. After the in-form star swept in his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their opening six matches, are somehow just three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?
This is a particularly tough query to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, while the wins have stacked up.
Per Opta, on just two occasions has the team had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side that have put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the margins are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for their star man to rescue them with two crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired in London, and again against United.
His opener originated from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the upright from the edge of the area. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more efforts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.
A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge they must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain drilling his shots into the top corner indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Could it be an alternative path where, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho might become the performer he was during his peak.
- The defensive duo are set to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.
Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would be third at Christmas. And most definitely earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while looking like an essential Three Lions star.
This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the hero faced the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.
