Just 60 days ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery admonished him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, as the club went six without a win, the question was whether his displays were an indicator or the reason of the team's more general malaise.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, though, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. After the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their opening six matches, find themselves just three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Hopefuls?
This is an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, even as the wins have accumulated.
According to the data, twice all season has the side registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a side who have strung together ten consecutive victories, they seem strangely fragile – however right now the fine lines are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their star man to save the day with two clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and it happened against the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, bent just inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing 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.”
Can It Last?
Logic says not. Against United, the opponents managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.
A reversion to average could be the biggest rival the club have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing his shots into the top corner indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is an alternative path in which, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.
This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
