Just 60 days ago that the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as Unai Emery admonished him over not reading a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason for the team's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, though, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. When the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, Emery ripped off his coat, opened his arms and roared. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six games, are somehow only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Serious Title Contenders?
This is a rather hard proposition to resolve. History, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, they've rarely been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the positive results have piled up.
Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side registered an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a club which has put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans look strangely fragile – yet right now the margins are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping Rogers to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred in London, and again versus the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opposition registered more shots and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.
A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent the club have to face in the near future. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on thrashing his shots into the top corner forever.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is another reality whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs could still return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to finding the net regularly.
- The attacking talent might become the performer he showed in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought Rogers by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.
This remarkable period is to be savoured exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
