Just two months in the past when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager scolded him for missing a pass in behind. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his displays were a sign or the reason of the team's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely decidedly more positive. After the England international drilled in his second strike to restore Villa's lead, Emery tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The team continued to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their opening six games, now sit just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
It remains a particularly tough proposition to address. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the wins have piled up.
Per Opta, on just two occasions have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a side which has strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – but currently the fine lines are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic appears to be to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for Rogers to bail them out with some clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and it happened against Manchester United.
His opener came from a superb shot, arced right inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized 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?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opposition registered more efforts and more shots on target. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.
A statistical correction might be the greatest opponent they will encounter over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Could it be an alternative path where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still find their top level.
- The main striker might resume scoring again.
- The attacking talent might become the force he showed during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.
This remarkable period must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. When the hero positioned himself before the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
