Just eight weeks ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him for not reading a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether Rogers' form were a sign or a cause for Villa's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, though, the sideline response was decidedly more positive. After the in-form star curled home his second strike to restore his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa continued to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their opening six matches, find themselves only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Serious Hopefuls?
This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. History, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, even as the victories have accumulated.
As per Opta, twice all season has the side had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a team who have put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with rivals and wait for their talisman to rescue them with a couple of crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.
His opener came from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the upright from a wide position. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more efforts and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.
A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival Villa must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting his shots into the top corner indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Could it be an alternative path whereby, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent might become the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo are due to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.
This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, nobody expected this. Few believed the team would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, few could imagine the young forward now would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.
The current run is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner positioned himself before the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.
