Just two months in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as his coach scolded him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, the question was whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason of the side's broader struggles.
“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 decidedly more positive. After the England international drilled in his second strike to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss tore off his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, find themselves just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?
This is an exceptionally difficult query to address. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, even as the victories have accumulated.
Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a team who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa look strangely fragile – however at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach looks like to trade blows with an opponent and wait for Rogers to save the day with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened versus Manchester United.
His opener originated from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.
“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.
Regression to the mean might be the greatest opponent Villa must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Potential for Growth
Could it be an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still return to peak condition.
- The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho might become the performer he was in Germany.
- The defensive duo are set to return from injury, fortifying a periodically leaky defence.
Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
But then, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as an essential England player.
The current run should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.
