A mere two months prior when Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery berated him for not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his displays were a sign or the source for Villa's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, though, the sideline response was far more favourable. As the in-form star curled home his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. Villa marched on to ten wins in a row , despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, are somehow just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?
It remains a rather hard question to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.
According to Opta, on just two occasions has the team had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side who have put together 10 in a row, the Villans look strangely fragile – but currently the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach looks like to trade blows with rivals before hoping their star man to rescue them with some clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.
His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the post from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“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. During the latest victory, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.
A reversion to average could be the biggest rival Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, cannot maintain blasting the football into the top corner indefinitely.
A Case for Belief
Perhaps there is an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures could still find their top level.
- The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho might become the player he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.
This could contain the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder now would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as an essential England player.
This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero faced the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.
