Just eight weeks ago when Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery admonished him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a sign or the reason for Villa's more general malaise.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, though, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. After the England international drilled in his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?
That’s a rather hard question to answer. History, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, even as the wins have accumulated.
As per Opta, in only two games has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a team who have just won ten consecutive victories, they look curiously susceptible – yet currently the fine lines are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with the opposition before hoping their talisman to rescue them with some precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again versus United.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
Is It Sustainable?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents registered more efforts 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 fixtures.
A statistical correction may well be the greatest opponent they will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain thrashing the football into the net's top corner indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho might become the force he showed in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
However, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.
The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.
