It was 60 days ago that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as his coach berated him over missing a penetrating pass. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his performances were a sign or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. As Rogers curled home his second to restore Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their opening six games, find themselves only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?
It remains a rather hard question to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been wholly dominant in many games, even as the wins have piled up.
As per the data, on just two occasions has the side registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side which has put together ten consecutive victories, Villa seem curiously susceptible – however at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent before hoping their talisman to rescue them with two precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more versus the Red Devils.
His opener originated from a superb shot, bent just inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.
“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?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opposition had more shots and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.
A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the ball into the top corner week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists another reality in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet find their top level.
- The centre-forward could start scoring again.
- The attacking talent might become the player he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.
This could contain the potential of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Savoring the Moment
However, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital England player.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. As the hero faced the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
