Just two months prior when Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as his coach berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a sign or the reason of the side's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, however, the touchline reaction was entirely far more favourable. As Rogers curled home his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to ten wins in a row , having failed to win their opening six games, now sit only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?
It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. The historical record, a general sense of Villa, suggests not. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side had an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a club which has strung together 10 in a row, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – however right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened when facing Manchester United.
His opener stemmed from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the upright from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one as he seized 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. During the latest victory, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.
A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent the club will encounter in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing the football into the net's top corner forever.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists another reality in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet find their top level.
- The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
- The winger could transform into the performer he showed during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Maybe within that lies the seeds of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought the midfielder as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential player for the national team.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As the hero faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
