Just eight weeks prior that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as his coach admonished him over missing a penetrating pass. At that point, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the source for the side's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, though, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. When the in-form star swept in his second strike to restore Villa's lead, Emery tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their opening six matches, find themselves just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Hopefuls?
This is a rather hard question to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, while the victories have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa look curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with rivals and wait for their talisman to bail them out with two precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more against United.
His opener came from an exquisite effort, bent just inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.
“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”
Can It Last?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.
A reversion to average might be the biggest rival they have to face in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.
A Case for Belief
Perhaps there is another reality where, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet return to peak condition.
- The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
- The winger might become the performer he showed during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.
This could contain the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.
This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
