Just eight weeks prior that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager berated him for not reading a pass in behind. At that point, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a sign or the reason of Villa's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. After the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, now sit a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Serious Title Contenders?
It remains a particularly tough query to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, while the victories have stacked up.
According to Opta, in only two games has the side registered an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has strung together ten consecutive victories, they look weirdly vulnerable – however currently the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic seems to be to trade blows with rivals and wait for their star man to rescue them with two clinical strikes. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened versus the Red Devils.
The initial strike originated from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener 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.”
Can It Last?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents registered more efforts and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those games.
A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge they have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be a different scenario whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still find their top level.
- The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent could transform into the performer he showed in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.
This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. When Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.
