It was eight weeks in the past when the Villa attacker was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager berated him for not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or the source of Villa's broader struggles.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. As the England international drilled in his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row and despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves only three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?
It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the wins have piled up.
According to the data, in only two games have Villa posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side that have just won 10 in a row, they look weirdly vulnerable – but at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
The current approach appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping their star man to bail them out with some precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened against Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United had more shots and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.
A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent they will encounter as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on drilling his shots into the top corner week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Could it be another reality whereby, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent could transform into the player he was during his peak.
- The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility for a sustained push, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, nobody expected this. Few believed Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as an essential England player.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. When the hero faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.
