A mere two months ago that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained whether his performances were a symptom or the source of Villa'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 sideline response was much more joyous. As the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team continued to ten wins in a row and having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?
It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. The historical record, a general sense of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant in many games, even as the victories have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a club who have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – yet currently the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and wait for Rogers to save the day with two clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened against the Red Devils.
The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, bent right inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced 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.”
Can It Last?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.
A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent the club will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists a different scenario where, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.
- The main striker could start scoring again.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he resembled during his peak.
- The defensive duo are set to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.
Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
But then, nobody expected this. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner faced the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and should be relished.
