Just 60 days in the past when the Villa attacker found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery berated him for missing a through-ball. At that point, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason of the side's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, however, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. As the in-form star drilled in his second to restore his side's advantage, Emery discarded his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, are somehow a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Challengers?
It remains an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing this season, while the wins have piled up.
According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa posted an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a club who have strung together ten consecutive victories, they appear weirdly vulnerable – however currently the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for Rogers to save the day with two clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.
His opener originated from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the post from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of the opener capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.
A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent they will encounter in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot maintain drilling the ball into the net's top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward could start scoring again.
- The attacking talent could transform into the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, bolstering a periodically leaky defence.
Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers now would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital England player.
This remarkable period is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers stood in front of the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
