It was two months ago that the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as his coach berated him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained if his performances were a sign or a cause of the team's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, though, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. When the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. The team were on their way to ten wins in a row , having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, now sit a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Hopefuls?
This is a rather hard proposition to address. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, even as the wins have accumulated.
According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the side posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a side that have put together a ten-match winning streak, they look curiously susceptible – however right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent before hoping Rogers to rescue them with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more versus United.
Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, curled right inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.
“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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opposition had more efforts and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.
A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge the club must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, cannot keep on thrashing his shots into the top corner indefinitely.
A Case for Belief
Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a periodically leaky backline.
Maybe within that lies the potential for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the young forward now would be leading a title charge while looking like a crucial player for the national team.
This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. As Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These spells are rare in football and should be relished.
