🔗 Share this article

Just 60 days ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while Unai Emery scolded him for not reading a pass in behind. During that period, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained whether his displays were a symptom or the reason of Villa's wider issues.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

On Sunday, however, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. After the in-form star curled home his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa marched on to ten wins in a row and after failing to win their opening six matches, are somehow a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Hopefuls?

It remains a particularly tough question to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the side posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a club who have strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa look curiously susceptible – but right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic seems to be to trade blows with the opposition and wait for their talisman to save the day with two crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and it happened against Manchester United.

The initial strike came from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents had more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.

A statistical correction might be the greatest opponent they will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling his shots into the top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet find their top level.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• The winger could transform into the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential player for the national team.

The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and should be relished.