Just 60 days prior that the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager berated him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause for the team's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, though, the sideline response was entirely far more favourable. As the in-form star drilled in his second to restore the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to ten wins in a row , despite not winning any of their first six games, are somehow only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?
This is a particularly tough question to resolve. History, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, even as the wins have stacked up.
Per statistical analysis, twice all season has the side registered an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side which has just won 10 in a row, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – but right now the margins are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to save the day with some crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.
His opener originated from a superb shot, arced just inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of his first 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. In the recent win, the opposition had more efforts and more direct attempts. The team has secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.
A reversion to average might be the biggest rival they will encounter as the season progresses. Their key man, surely, cannot maintain thrashing the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
A Case for Belief
Perhaps there is another reality whereby, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
- The winger could transform into the performer he showed during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky backline.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would sit third at Christmas. And most definitely earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner stood in front of the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
