It was two months ago when the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager scolded him for missing a through-ball. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were an indicator or the source for the side's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. When the in-form star curled home his second to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa continued to ten wins in a row and despite not winning their opening six matches, find themselves only three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Serious Challengers?
This is a rather hard question to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, even as the wins have stacked up.
Per Opta, twice all season have Villa had an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a side that have just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – yet right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with an opponent before hoping Rogers to bail them out with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened against United.
The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents managed more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.
A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge Villa must confront as the season progresses. The forward, surely, will not continue to drilling the football into the net's top corner forever.
A Case for Belief
Perhaps there is a different scenario where, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet find their top level.
- The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
- The winger might become the force he showed during his peak.
- The defensive duo are set to return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be leading a title charge and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.
This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the hero positioned himself before the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
