A mere eight weeks in the past that the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery admonished him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason for the side's wider issues.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
This weekend, however, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. As Rogers curled home his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their opening six games, now sit just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?
That’s a particularly tough query to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, even as the wins have accumulated.
According to the data, twice all season have Villa had an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a side that have just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans look curiously susceptible – but currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for their star man to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more when facing United.
The initial strike originated from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the upright from a wide position. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United had more efforts and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those fixtures.
A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent the club must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists another reality where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.
- The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he was in Germany.
- The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital Three Lions star.
The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. When the hero stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.
