Just two months in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager berated him over missing a through-ball. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a sign or a cause for the side's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, though, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. As the England international curled home his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to ten wins in a row , despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, now sit a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Serious Challengers?
That’s a rather hard query to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they have not been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.
As per Opta, in only two games has the side posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side who have put together 10 in a row, they seem strangely fragile – yet currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with two clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again versus United.
Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“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. In the recent win, the opposition registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.
A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge they must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain thrashing his shots into the net's top corner forever.
A Case for Belief
Perhaps there is another reality in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.
- The main striker may begin to scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.
This could contain the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would be third at Christmas. And certainly back in October, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential player for the national team.
This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As Rogers faced the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
