Just eight weeks prior when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery scolded him over not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the source of 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 proved to be far more favourable. When the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, Emery tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. Villa continued to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their opening six matches, are somehow only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?
That’s an exceptionally difficult question to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.
Per Opta, in only two games has the side had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a team who have just won 10 in a row, Villa look curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with an opponent before hoping their talisman to rescue them with some clinical strikes. It happened at Leeds, it happened in London, and again versus the Red Devils.
His opener originated from a superb shot, arced right inside the upright from a wide position. For his second proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Is It Sustainable?
Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United registered more efforts and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.
A statistical correction may well be the greatest opponent Villa must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists another reality where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs could still return to peak condition.
- The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent could transform into the performer he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.
Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial England player.
This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. As Rogers stood in front of the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
