Just two months ago that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, the question was if his performances 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.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. As Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss tore off his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?
This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, even as the victories have stacked up.
As per Opta, twice all season have Villa posted an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side that have just won a ten-match winning streak, they appear weirdly vulnerable – but at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for Rogers to bail them out with some precise efforts. It happened at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again versus Manchester United.
His opener stemmed from a brilliant finish, bent right inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Can It Last?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those matches.
A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge Villa have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling his shots into the top corner indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists another reality whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs may yet rediscover their best form.
- The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The winger may rediscover the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.
This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital England player.
This remarkable period is to be savoured for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.
