A mere eight weeks ago when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his displays were a sign or a cause of the team's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. As the in-form star drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss tore off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row and despite not winning any of their first six games, now sit a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Serious Challengers?
This is an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, even as the wins have accumulated.
According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the side registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a side that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – however right now the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with rivals and then rely on their star man to save the day with two precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened versus the Red Devils.
His opener originated from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Can It Last?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more efforts and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.
A statistical correction could be the biggest rival they have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on blasting the ball into the top corner forever.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, bolstering a periodically leaky backline.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, nobody expected this. Few believed Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.
The current run is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.
