It was eight weeks in the past when the Villa attacker stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, though, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. After the in-form star drilled in his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team continued to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Hopefuls?
That’s a particularly tough question to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they have not been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the team posted an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side that have put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the margins are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for Rogers to rescue them with two precise efforts. It happened at Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.
His opener originated from a superb shot, bent right inside the post from a wide position. For his second acted as a slightly less clean iteration of his first capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents registered more shots and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.
Regression to the mean could be the most significant challenge the club have to face as the season progresses. The forward, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the top corner indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be an alternative path where, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still rediscover their best form.
- The main striker may begin to scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he resembled in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers now would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like an essential player for the national team.
The current run must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. As the hero stood in front of the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.
