It was 60 days in the past when Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while his coach scolded him over missing a penetrating pass. During that period, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a sign or a cause of the side's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. After the England international curled home his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row , despite not winning their opening six matches, now sit a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?
This is an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of the club, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.
According to Opta, in only two games has the side posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a team who have put together 10 in a row, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – but currently the margins are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy seems to be to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on their talisman to save the day with some precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened against the Red Devils.
His opener stemmed from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration 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?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents registered more efforts and more shots on target. The team has secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.
A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge they will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on drilling his shots into the net's top corner week in, week out.
A Case for Belief
Perhaps there is another reality whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.
- The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
- The attacking talent might become the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.
This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the match-winner faced the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
