Just two months in the past that the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while the Villa manager admonished him over missing a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a sign or the reason of the team's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, though, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. After the England international swept in his second strike to restore his side's advantage, Emery tore off his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. The team were on their way to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Challengers?
This is a particularly tough proposition to address. History, a general sense of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.
Per the data, on just two occasions has the side posted an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side that have put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – however right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with an opponent before hoping Rogers to save the day with two precise efforts. It happened against Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more versus Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“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. Against United, the opponents had more shots and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.
A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they must confront in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot maintain thrashing the football into the net's top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still rediscover their best form.
- The main striker might resume scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho might become the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers now would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.
The current run must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
