Just 60 days prior that Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him over not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, with the team went six without a win, the question was whether his performances were an indicator or a cause of the side's wider issues.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response was far more favourable. After the England international swept in his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa continued to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their opening six games, are somehow a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?
That’s a particularly tough query to resolve. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.
According to the data, on just two occasions has the side registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side who have put together ten consecutive victories, Villa look curiously susceptible – but at the moment the margins are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their star man to save the day with two crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and it happened against the Red Devils.
His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled precisely inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized 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?
Logic says not. In the recent win, the opposition registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.
A statistical correction could be the biggest rival they have to face in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing the football into the top corner forever.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to scoring again.
- The attacking talent could transform into the player he resembled during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.
This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable the team would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers now would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial England player.
This remarkable period must be cherished precisely because it feels so unlikely. As Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.
