It was two months ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, doubts remained if his performances were a sign or the source for the side's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. After the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?
It remains a rather hard question to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding this season, even as the victories have piled up.
As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a club which has just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans look strangely fragile – yet currently the fine lines are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping Rogers to bail them out with two precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more versus the Red Devils.
The initial strike originated from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing 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 a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.
A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival they must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.
A Case for Belief
Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still return to peak condition.
- The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
- The winger might become the force he resembled during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.
This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital player for the national team.
This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers stood in front of the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.
