A mere two months in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery admonished him for not reading a through-ball. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or a cause of Villa's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. As Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their opening six matches, are somehow only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?
That’s a rather hard query to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, even as the wins have piled up.
According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the team registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a club which has put together 10 in a row, they seem strangely fragile – yet at the moment the margins are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more against United.
Rogers' first goal came from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the post from a wide position. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.
“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 had more shots 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 fixtures.
Regression to the mean could be the most significant challenge the club must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is a different scenario where, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still find their top level.
- The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the player he resembled during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital England player.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. As Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.
