A mere 60 days in the past that Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as his coach scolded him over missing a through-ball. During that period, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were an indicator or the reason for Villa's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, however, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. As the in-form star drilled in his second strike to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their opening six games, now sit just three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Legitimate Hopefuls?
That’s a rather hard question to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, even as the positive results have accumulated.
Per Opta, on just two occasions has the side registered an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a club that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear strangely fragile – yet right now the margins are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition and wait for Rogers to save the day with some crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, bent right inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener capitalizing 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.”
Can It Last?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents had more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.
A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge they will encounter in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on drilling his shots into the top corner forever.
A Case for Belief
Could it be another reality in which, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins could start finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he resembled in Germany.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.
This could contain the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.
This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. As the hero faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.
