A mere eight weeks prior that Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as his coach berated him over missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club went six without a win, the question was if his displays 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.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response was entirely much more joyous. When the in-form star curled home his second to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery tore off his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, find themselves only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Hopefuls?
That’s a particularly tough query to address. History, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, even as the victories have piled up.
Per Opta, in only two games has the side posted an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a club which has put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem strangely fragile – but right now the margins are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to save the day with two crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again when facing United.
Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“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?
Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those fixtures.
A statistical correction could be the biggest rival the club must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho might become the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo are due to return from injury, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
This could contain the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be leading a title charge while looking like a vital England player.
This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.
