A mere two months ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager admonished him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a sign or the reason for Villa's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, however, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. When Rogers curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. The team continued to ten wins in a row , having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, find themselves a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?
This is a rather hard query to answer. History, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.
According to Opta, in only two games has the side registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a side which has strung together ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – yet currently the margins are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with the opposition before hoping their star man to bail them out with two precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more against United.
The initial strike originated from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he pounced 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?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.
A reversion to average could be the biggest rival Villa have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the ball into the top corner week in, week out.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists an alternative path whereby, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet return to peak condition.
- The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent could transform into the force he was during his peak.
- The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while looking like an essential Three Lions star.
This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the hero faced the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
