A mere two months ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as his coach admonished him over not reading a pass in behind. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, the question was if his displays were a sign or a cause for the side'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 sideline response was far more favourable. As the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, find themselves a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Challengers?
That’s an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. History, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, even as the victories have stacked up.
As per the data, in only two games have Villa registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a club that have just won a ten-match winning streak, they seem curiously susceptible – but at the moment the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach seems to be to trade blows with an opponent and wait for Rogers to rescue them with some crisp finishes. It happened away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.
The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of goal number one capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents managed more shots and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those fixtures.
A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is an alternative path where, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet find their top level.
- The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The winger may rediscover the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.
This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.
This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. As the hero positioned himself before the North End after the match leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
