Just two months prior when Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him over not reading a through-ball. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, the question was whether Rogers' form were a sign or the source of the side's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, however, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. As the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win any of their first six matches, are somehow just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
That’s a rather hard query to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, while the wins have accumulated.
As per Opta, in only two games has the team had an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a club that have put together ten consecutive victories, they look strangely fragile – but at the moment the margins are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with rivals and then rely on Rogers to save the day with two precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more versus Manchester United.
The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Can It Last?
Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more efforts and more efforts on goal. The team has won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.
A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain thrashing the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is an alternative path where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still rediscover their best form.
- The main striker might resume scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho might become the force he was in Germany.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like a crucial player for the national team.
The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. As the hero positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.
