Just 60 days in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as the Villa manager admonished him over missing a pass in behind. At that point, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a sign or the reason of the team's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, however, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. After the in-form star swept in his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss discarded his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa continued to a 10th successive win , having failed to win any of their first six games, now sit only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Hopefuls?
It remains a rather hard proposition to answer. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.
According to statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa posted an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a club that have just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – but currently the margins are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with some precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened in London, and again against United.
His opener originated from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.
“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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United had more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.
A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent they will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the net's top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still rediscover their best form.
- The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho might become the force he resembled during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
However, nobody expected this. Nobody thought the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.
The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner positioned himself before the North End after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.
