Just 60 days prior that the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while his coach berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as the club endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether his displays were an indicator or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.
“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 entirely decidedly more positive. As Rogers curled home his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, find themselves just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?
This is an exceptionally difficult question to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.
Per the data, in only two games has the side registered an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side who have just won a ten-match winning streak, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – but currently the margins are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with rivals before hoping their talisman to save the day with two clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more when facing Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one 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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.
A reversion to average could be the biggest rival they will encounter as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the football into the net's top corner indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to finding the net regularly.
- The attacking talent could transform into the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Maybe within that lies the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, nobody expected this. Few believed Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward 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 winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.
