Just two months in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him over not reading a through-ball. At that point, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his displays were a symptom or the source for the team's more general malaise.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst proved to be decidedly more positive. After the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their opening six games, now sit just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
It remains an exceptionally difficult query to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.
Per statistical analysis, twice all season have Villa registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a side who have just won ten consecutive victories, Villa appear curiously susceptible – however at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with rivals before hoping their talisman to save the day with two clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again against United.
His opener originated from a superb shot, bent just inside the goal frame from a wide position. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing 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.”
Can It Last?
Logic says not. In the recent win, the opponents managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those matches.
A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge Villa must confront in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.
A Case for Belief
Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.
- The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the force he was during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Relishing the Unlikely
But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned the young forward now would be leading a title charge while looking like a crucial player for the national team.
The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the hero positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.
