A mere two months ago when the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while the Villa manager berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether his displays were an indicator or the reason 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, though, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. As Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to ten wins in a row and having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?
It remains a rather hard query to address. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.
Per Opta, twice all season have Villa posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – however right now the fine lines are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach seems to be to exchange chances with rivals before hoping their talisman to rescue them with two precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it happened in London, and once more versus the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced 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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.
Regression to the mean could be the biggest rival Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing his shots into the net's top corner indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is an alternative path in which, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the player he was during his peak.
- The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward now would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital player for the national team.
This winning streak is to be savoured exactly since it feels so unlikely. As Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.
