A mere 60 days prior when Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while his coach admonished him over missing a pass in behind. At that point, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a symptom or the reason for the team's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. After the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, opened his arms and roared. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow just three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Challengers?
It remains an exceptionally difficult question to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, even as the wins have accumulated.
As per the data, in only two games has the side had an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, they look curiously susceptible – yet right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach appears to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent before hoping Rogers to rescue them with two clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more versus the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the upright from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents managed more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.
A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival the club have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be another reality where, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to scoring again.
- The attacking talent could transform into the performer he resembled during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward now would be leading a title charge and appearing as a vital England player.
The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
