A mere 60 days in the past that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as his coach admonished him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a sign or the source of Villa's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, however, the touchline reaction was decidedly more positive. As Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss tore off his coat, spread his arms and roared. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their opening six matches, now sit a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?
It remains a rather hard question to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, while the victories have piled up.
According to Opta, in only two games have Villa posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a team who have just won a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear curiously susceptible – yet currently the margins are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to rescue them with some clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again versus the Red Devils.
His opener originated from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Logic says not. In the recent win, the opposition managed more efforts and more shots on target. The team has secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.
A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge they must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the top corner forever.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is another reality where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
- The winger may rediscover the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.
This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
But then, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like a crucial Three Lions star.
This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the home supporters at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.
