Just two months in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as his coach admonished him over missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his displays were a symptom or a cause of Villa'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 manager's outburst proved to be decidedly more positive. When Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning any of their first six matches, are somehow just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?
That’s a particularly tough query to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, while the positive results have stacked up.
Per Opta, on just two occasions have Villa registered an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a team which has strung together 10 in a row, they look strangely fragile – however at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent before hoping their talisman to save the day with some precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened versus Manchester United.
The initial strike came from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first capitalizing 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.”
Can It Last?
Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opponents had more efforts and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.
A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge they will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Savoring the Moment
However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.
This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the hero faced the North End at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.
