Just two months ago that the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager scolded him over not reading a through-ball. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were an indicator 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, though, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. As Rogers curled home his second strike to restore Villa's lead, Emery tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row and having failed to win their opening six matches, find themselves only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Hopefuls?
This is a particularly tough query to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, while the wins have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa posted an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a club which has put together 10 in a row, the Villans seem strangely fragile – however right now the margins are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.
His opener originated from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one as he seized 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.”
Can It Last?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.
A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent they will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing his shots into the top corner indefinitely.
A Case for Belief
Perhaps there is an alternative path where, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to finding the net regularly.
- The winger may rediscover the player he was in Germany.
- The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.
Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital England player.
This remarkable period is to be savoured precisely because it seems so surreal. When Rogers faced the North End after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
