It was two months prior when Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as his coach admonished him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his performances were a symptom or the source for the team's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst proved to be decidedly more positive. After Rogers swept in his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss tore off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to ten wins in a row and despite not winning any of their first six matches, now sit only three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Title Contenders?
That’s a rather hard question to resolve. Past precedent, a general sense of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.
Per the data, twice all season have Villa registered an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a club that have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear curiously susceptible – however at the moment the margins are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach seems to be to trade blows with rivals before hoping their star man to bail them out with some crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again against the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.
“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents had more shots and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.
A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge Villa must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.
A Case for Belief
Could it be an alternative path where, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still return to peak condition.
- The centre-forward may begin to finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho might become the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.
This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.
This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers faced the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
