Just two months ago that the Villa attacker was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as the Villa manager scolded him for not reading a through-ball. Back then, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained whether his performances were an indicator or the reason of the team's wider issues.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. After the England international drilled in his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The team continued to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, find themselves a mere three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?
It remains a rather hard proposition to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.
According to the data, in only two games has the side registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a team that have put together 10 in a row, the Villans look strangely fragile – but right now the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on their talisman to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.
The initial strike came from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.
“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. During the latest victory, the opposition managed more shots and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.
A reversion to average could be the biggest rival the club have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, surely, will not continue to blasting his shots into the top corner indefinitely.
A Case for Belief
Perhaps there is another reality whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward may begin to scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho might become the player he was during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs will eventually come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.
This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.
This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. As the match-winner faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
