Just eight weeks ago that the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his displays were an indicator or the source for the team's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. When the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his coat, opened his arms and roared. The team marched on to a 10th successive win and after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?
This is a particularly tough question to address. The historical record, a general sense of the club, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.
As per Opta, on just two occasions has the team posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a team which has just won 10 in a row, they look weirdly vulnerable – however right now the margins are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic appears to be to trade blows with rivals before hoping Rogers to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more when facing Manchester United.
The initial strike came from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version 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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Logic says not. Against United, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.
A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge Villa must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still find their top level.
- The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
- The winger could transform into the player he was during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital England player.
This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.
