It was two months ago when the young forward stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as his coach berated him over not reading a through-ball. Back then, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained if his performances were a symptom or the source for the team's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response was decidedly more positive. When the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery discarded his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, are somehow a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Hopefuls?
That’s an exceptionally difficult question to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.
As per Opta, on just two occasions has the side had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a team who have put together 10 in a row, they look curiously susceptible – but right now the margins are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for their talisman to rescue them with two clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.
The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, Manchester United managed more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.
A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge they will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is another reality where, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still return to peak condition.
- The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
- The winger could transform into the player he resembled in Germany.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.
This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner stood in front of the North End after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
