A mere eight weeks prior when Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as his coach scolded him over not reading a pass in behind. During that period, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause for Villa's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, however, the sideline response proved to be decidedly more positive. After the in-form star swept in his second strike to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win any of their first six matches, find themselves just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Challengers?
This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. History, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, while the wins have stacked up.
As per statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side which has just won 10 in a row, Villa look strangely fragile – but currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with the opposition and wait for their star man to bail them out with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Can It Last?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those matches.
A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent they have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot maintain drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be a different scenario in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent could transform into the force he was during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.
Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
However, nobody expected this. Nobody thought the team would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder by the end of the year would be leading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.
The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
