Just 60 days ago that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as his coach admonished him over not reading a pass in behind. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether his displays were a symptom or the reason for Villa's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be decidedly more positive. When the in-form star swept in his second to restore Villa's lead, the boss tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, are somehow just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?
It remains a particularly tough query to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing this season, while the victories have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side that have just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look weirdly vulnerable – however currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with the opposition and wait for their star man to rescue them with some crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.
His opener stemmed from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized 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?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.
A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival they have to face as the season progresses. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is a different scenario where, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
- The attacking talent might become the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.
This could contain the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the young forward now would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential player for the national team.
This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it feels so unlikely. As Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
