It was two months prior when the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as the Villa manager scolded him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as the club went six without a win, the question was whether Rogers' form were a sign or the source of the team's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, however, the touchline reaction was entirely decidedly more positive. When the England international swept in his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit only three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?
It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, even as the positive results have stacked up.
According to the data, twice all season have Villa registered an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a team that have strung together 10 in a row, Villa look curiously susceptible – but right now the margins are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on their star man to rescue them with two crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again against United.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.
“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?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opposition registered more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.
A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival Villa will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing the football into the top corner week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho might become the player he showed in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
Yet, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial England player.
This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and should be relished.
