Just 60 days in the past that the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery scolded him over missing a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, the question was if Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause for the team's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, though, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. As Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win and despite not winning any of their first six games, now sit a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Challengers?
This is a particularly tough question to resolve. History, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, while the wins have stacked up.
Per the data, on just two occasions has the side had an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a team which has just won 10 in a row, the Villans seem strangely fragile – yet currently the margins are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their talisman to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. It happened away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again versus Manchester United.
His opener stemmed from a superb shot, arced precisely 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 pounced on a pass from Watkins.
“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?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents registered more efforts and more efforts on goal. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.
A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge the club will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain drilling his shots into the top corner week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is an alternative path in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still return to peak condition.
- The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he resembled during his peak.
- The defensive duo are set to return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like an essential player for the national team.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. As the match-winner faced the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
