A mere eight weeks ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained if his performances were an indicator or a cause of the team's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst was far more favourable. After the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit only three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?
That’s an exceptionally difficult query to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, even as the wins have piled up.
According to statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a team who have strung together ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – however currently the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping their talisman to bail them out with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced 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.”
Can It Last?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents registered more shots and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.
A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be an alternative path in which, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still return to peak condition.
- The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The winger might become the force he resembled during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds for a sustained push, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
But then, nobody expected this. Few believed the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like an essential England player.
The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner faced the Villa faithful when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These spells are rare in football and should be relished.
