It was 60 days ago that the Villa attacker was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as his coach scolded him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his displays were a sign or the reason for Villa's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response was far more favourable. When Rogers drilled in his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The team continued to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves a mere three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?
This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. History, a general sense of the club, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, even as the wins have accumulated.
Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side had an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a side who have put together 10 in a row, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – yet currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to save the day with two crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more against United.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, bent right inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more shots and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.
A reversion to average could be the biggest rival they will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is another reality in which, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet find their top level.
- The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he showed during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial England player.
This remarkable period is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner faced the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
