It was eight weeks ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as his coach scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were a sign or the reason for 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, however, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. When Rogers curled home his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and roared. Villa continued to ten wins in a row , having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, find themselves a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Legitimate Hopefuls?
This is a particularly tough question to address. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, even as the positive results have accumulated.
As per the data, on just two occasions has the team had an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a side that have just won 10 in a row, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – however currently the margins are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
The current approach looks like to trade blows with the opposition and then rely on their star man to bail them out with some clinical strikes. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and once more when facing United.
The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, bent precisely inside the upright from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first 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?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.
A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they have to face as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot keep on drilling the ball into the top corner week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is another reality whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins could start finding the net regularly.
- The winger could transform into the force he was during his peak.
- The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky backline.
This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely back in October, nobody thought Rogers now would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential player for the national team.
This remarkable period must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. When the hero positioned himself before the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
