Just 60 days in the past that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as the Villa manager berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained if his displays were a symptom or the reason for the team's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. As the England international curled home his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The team continued to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Hopefuls?
It remains an exceptionally difficult question to address. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, even as the wins have accumulated.
Per the data, twice all season have Villa registered an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a team which has strung together ten consecutive victories, the Villans look curiously susceptible – yet currently the margins are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach seems to be to trade blows with an opponent before hoping their star man to save the day with some precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it happened in London, and once more when facing the Red Devils.
The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized 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?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.
A statistical correction may well be the greatest opponent they have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the football into the net's top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still rediscover their best form.
- The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
- The attacking talent could transform into the force he showed during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky backline.
This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought Rogers by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.
The current run is to be savoured precisely because it seems so surreal. When the hero stood in front of the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
