Just eight weeks in the past that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while the Villa manager scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his performances were an indicator or the reason for the side's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. After the in-form star swept in his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their opening six fixtures, now sit just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?
That’s an exceptionally difficult question to address. History, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, while the positive results have stacked up.
According to the data, in only two games have Villa registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side who have just won a ten-match winning streak, they seem weirdly vulnerable – but currently the margins are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to save the day with two clinical strikes. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again against United.
Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, bent just inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.
“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. In the recent win, Manchester United registered more shots and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those fixtures.
A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival they must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is another reality in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet find their top level.
- The main striker may begin to scoring again.
- The attacking talent might become the performer he was during his peak.
- The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.
Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be leading a title charge while looking like a vital England player.
This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.
