It was 60 days prior that the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager scolded him over not reading a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were an indicator or the source of the side'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 far more favourable. As the England international curled home his second strike to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, opened his arms and roared. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?
This is an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.
According to the data, in only two games has the team had an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a side who have just won 10 in a row, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – however currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping their star man to save the day with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and it happened against United.
The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Can It Last?
Logic says not. Against United, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.
Regression to the mean might be the most significant challenge the club will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the ball into the net's top corner forever.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists another reality whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still find their top level.
- The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he resembled in Germany.
- The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, nobody expected this. Nobody thought the team would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers now would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. As the hero faced the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.
