A mere 60 days ago when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as Unai Emery scolded him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his displays were an indicator or a cause of the team's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, however, the manager's outburst was entirely decidedly more positive. After Rogers drilled in his second strike to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to ten wins in a row and after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow just three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?
That’s a particularly tough question to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.
As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a team which has just won a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
The current approach appears to be to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on their star man to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.
His opener originated from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first 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?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more efforts and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.
A reversion to average could be the biggest rival they have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.
A Case for Belief
Could it be another reality in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
- The attacking talent could transform into the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs will eventually come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like a vital England player.
The current run is to be savoured precisely because it seems so surreal. As Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.
