A mere 60 days prior when Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, with the team endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether his displays were a symptom or the source of the side's more general malaise.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, though, the manager's outburst was entirely decidedly more positive. As the in-form star curled home his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win any of their first six games, now sit a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
This is a rather hard question to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, while the positive results have piled up.
Per Opta, on just two occasions have Villa had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has put together 10 in a row, they appear curiously susceptible – however at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent before hoping Rogers to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.
His opener came from a superb shot, bent right inside the upright from a wide position. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those fixtures.
A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent they have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, cannot keep on drilling the football into the top corner week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
- The attacking talent could transform into the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo are set to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds for a sustained push, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned Rogers now would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. As the match-winner faced the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.
