It was two months ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as his coach berated him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, doubts remained if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for the side's wider issues.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. When Rogers curled home his second to restore the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?
This is a rather hard proposition to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing this season, while the wins have stacked up.
According to the data, twice all season has the team registered an xG notably superior than the other team. For a team who have strung together 10 in a row, they seem weirdly vulnerable – however right now the margins are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with the opposition before hoping Rogers to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus United.
His opener originated from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced 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?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents registered more shots and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.
A statistical correction may well be the greatest opponent the club have to face in the near future. Their key man, surely, cannot maintain blasting the football into the top corner week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is a different scenario where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.
- The main striker might resume scoring again.
- The attacking talent might become the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, bolstering a periodically leaky defence.
This could contain the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
Yet, nobody expected this. Few believed the team would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.
This remarkable period is to be savoured exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the hero positioned himself before the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.
