A mere eight weeks ago when Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as Unai Emery admonished him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for the side'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 entirely far more favourable. When Rogers curled home his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his coat, opened his arms and roared. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their opening six fixtures, are somehow a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?
That’s a rather hard question to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant in many games, even as the wins have accumulated.
Per the data, on just two occasions has the team registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a team which has strung together 10 in a row, they appear curiously susceptible – yet right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach seems to be to trade blows with an opponent before hoping their talisman to bail them out with a couple of clinical strikes. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents had more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.
A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival the club must confront in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting the ball into the top corner indefinitely.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists another reality in which, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still find their top level.
- The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent might become the performer he was during his peak.
- The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly back in October, few could imagine the midfielder as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as an essential England player.
The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. When Rogers faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
