A mere two months ago that the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a sign or a cause of the side's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, however, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. After Rogers swept in his second strike to reinstate the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club continued to ten wins in a row and despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, find themselves just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Hopefuls?
That’s a particularly tough query to answer. History, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a club who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, they seem weirdly vulnerable – but currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping their star man to bail them out with some crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again against the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents managed more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.
Regression to the mean could be the greatest opponent Villa will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Could it be a different scenario whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent could transform into the force he showed during his peak.
- The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.
Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as an essential England player.
This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the match-winner positioned himself before the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
