It was 60 days ago when Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager scolded him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his performances were a sign or the source of the team's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. As Rogers drilled in his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Hopefuls?
That’s a particularly tough proposition to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.
Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a team which has just won a ten-match winning streak, they appear weirdly vulnerable – however right now the fine lines are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to save the day with some clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again when facing Manchester United.
The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a slight scruffier version 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?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.
A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge Villa must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
A Case for Belief
Perhaps there is another reality whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet find their top level.
- The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he resembled in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, nobody expected this. Few believed Villa would sit third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers now would be spearheading a title charge while looking like a crucial Three Lions star.
This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero positioned himself before the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.
