A mere eight weeks ago that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while his coach berated him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a sign 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.”
This weekend, though, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. As the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win any of their first six matches, find themselves just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?
It remains an exceptionally difficult question to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.
As per Opta, twice all season has the team had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a club which has strung together 10 in a row, they look strangely fragile – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping their talisman to save the day with two clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.
His opener originated from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the upright from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener 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.”
Can It Last?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.
Regression to the mean might be the most significant challenge the club must confront in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot keep on blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be a different scenario where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins could start finding the net regularly.
- The winger could transform into the player he was in Germany.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky backline.
This could contain the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought Rogers now would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as a vital England player.
The current run is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
