Just 60 days ago when the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while Unai Emery admonished him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or the source of 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, though, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. After Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, Emery discarded his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row , despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, now sit just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?
That’s an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing in many games, while the positive results have accumulated.
Per Opta, on just two occasions have Villa had an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a team which has just won 10 in a row, Villa look curiously susceptible – yet currently the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy seems to be to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with some clinical strikes. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again versus United.
The initial strike stemmed from a superb shot, curled just inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one capitalizing 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Logic says not. In the recent win, the opposition managed more efforts and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.
A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on drilling his shots into the net's top corner forever.
A Case for Belief
Could it be an alternative path where, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The winger could transform into the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.
This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial England player.
This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. When the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.
