It was 60 days prior when the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as his coach scolded him over not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were a sign or the source of Villa's more general malaise.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
On Sunday, though, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. When the in-form star curled home his second to restore his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa continued to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their opening six fixtures, now sit a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
This is a particularly tough query to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, even as the victories have piled up.
According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a side who have strung together 10 in a row, they appear curiously susceptible – but right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
The current approach appears to be to trade blows with an opponent before hoping Rogers to save the day with some crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and it happened against the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, curled precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized 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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.
A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge they must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, cannot maintain drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still find their top level.
- The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he showed during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial England player.
This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.
