A mere eight weeks prior when the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as his coach berated him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause for the team's wider issues.
“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 was far more favourable. When the in-form star drilled in his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The team continued to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Hopefuls?
It remains a rather hard proposition to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the positive results have piled up.
Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side registered an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a club which has put together ten consecutive victories, they look curiously susceptible – however at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent before hoping their star man to bail them out with some clinical strikes. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and again versus Manchester United.
The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those fixtures.
A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent they have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, surely, cannot maintain blasting the football into the net's top corner indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still rediscover their best form.
- The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
- The winger might become the force he showed in Germany.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, fortifying a sometimes shaky defence.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like a vital England player.
This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. When the match-winner positioned himself before the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and should be relished.
