Just eight weeks prior that Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, the question was if his performances were an indicator or the source for the team's broader struggles.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
On Sunday, though, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. When Rogers swept in his second strike to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, spread his arms and roared. The team marched on to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their opening six fixtures, now sit a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?
That’s an exceptionally difficult question to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, while the positive results have stacked up.
Per the data, on just two occasions have Villa posted an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a team which has put together 10 in a row, they look strangely fragile – however currently the fine lines are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic appears to be to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their talisman to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it happened in London, and again when facing United.
His opener stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.
A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent they have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, will not continue to blasting the ball into the top corner week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is another reality where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still find their top level.
- The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent might become the force he was in Germany.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.
This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely earlier this season, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while looking like a vital player for the national team.
This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner faced the North End after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.
