It was two months ago that the young forward stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him for missing a penetrating pass. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, the question was whether his displays were a symptom or a cause of Villa's more general malaise.
“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. When the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the boss discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa continued to ten wins in a row and having failed to win any of their first six matches, are somehow a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?
That’s an exceptionally difficult question to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.
Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a team who have put together ten consecutive victories, they appear curiously susceptible – but currently the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping their talisman to bail them out with two clinical strikes. It happened away to Leeds, it happened in London, and once more when facing Manchester United.
His opener originated from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of the opener capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“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?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opposition managed more shots and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.
A reversion to average may well be the greatest opponent they have to face in the near future. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Potential for Growth
Could it be another reality in which, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still find their top level.
- The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he showed in Germany.
- The defensive duo are due to return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And most definitely earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward now would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.
This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As the hero positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. Such periods are rare in football and should be relished.
