A mere eight weeks in the past when Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery scolded him over missing a pass in behind. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his performances were a symptom or a cause for the side's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely decidedly more positive. When the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, now sit a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Title Contenders?
This is an exceptionally difficult question to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, even as the wins have piled up.
According to Opta, in only two games has the side had an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, they appear weirdly vulnerable – however currently the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again against United.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the upright from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized 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?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents had more efforts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those fixtures.
A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on blasting his shots into the net's top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists another reality whereby, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to finding the net regularly.
- The winger might become the player he resembled during his peak.
- The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.
This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, nobody thought the midfielder now would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential player for the national team.
The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As the hero faced the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
