It was eight weeks in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as his coach admonished him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his performances were a sign or the source of the team'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 manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. After Rogers swept in his second to restore Villa's lead, the boss discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to ten wins in a row , after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Serious Challengers?
That’s a rather hard question to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, while the wins have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a club that have put together 10 in a row, Villa appear strangely fragile – but right now the margins are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic appears to be to trade blows with an opponent before hoping their star man to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened in London, and once more when facing Manchester United.
His opener originated from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.
“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, the opponents registered more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.
Regression to the mean could be the most significant challenge they will encounter in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.
A Case for Belief
Could it be an alternative path in which, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still return to peak condition.
- The centre-forward may begin to finding the net regularly.
- The attacking talent could transform into the performer he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky backline.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would sit in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential player for the national team.
This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. As the hero faced the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods do not happen often and should be relished.
