Just 60 days prior when Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while his coach admonished him for missing a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a symptom or a cause of the team's broader struggles.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
On Sunday, though, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. When the in-form star drilled in his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss discarded his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves just three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Serious Title Contenders?
That’s a rather hard query to address. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, even as the wins have stacked up.
According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the team registered an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a side which has put together ten consecutive victories, Villa seem curiously susceptible – yet right now the margins are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on their talisman to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more against the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal came from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one capitalizing 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. During the latest victory, the opponents registered more shots and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.
A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge the club must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists an alternative path whereby, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still return to peak condition.
- The centre-forward may begin to finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he was during his peak.
- The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as a crucial England player.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As Rogers faced the North End at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
