A mere eight weeks ago when Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while his coach admonished him over not reading a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his displays were a sign or the reason of Villa's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, though, the touchline reaction was decidedly more positive. As the in-form star curled home his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, now sit just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Hopefuls?
That’s an exceptionally difficult query to address. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, while the wins have accumulated.
According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the side had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side that have strung together 10 in a row, Villa look strangely fragile – yet currently the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on their star man to bail them out with some precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.
His opener originated from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized 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.”
Can It Last?
Logic says not. In the recent win, the opponents registered more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.
A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival Villa will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, surely, will not continue to thrashing the ball into the net's top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists another reality whereby, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players could still find their top level.
- The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
- The winger may rediscover the force he resembled in Germany.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
This could contain the potential for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would sit third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought the young forward now would be leading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.
The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. When Rogers stood in front of the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
