It was eight weeks ago when Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while his coach scolded him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, doubts remained if his performances were a symptom or the reason for 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 proved to be much more joyous. After the England international drilled in his second to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The team continued to ten wins in a row , after failing to win any of their first six games, find themselves a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
It remains a rather hard query to address. The historical record, a general sense of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the victories have piled up.
According to Opta, twice all season has the side had an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a side who have just won ten consecutive victories, they seem curiously susceptible – yet right now the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to save the day with some clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again against the Red Devils.
His opener originated from a superb shot, curled right inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first 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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more efforts and more shots on target. The team has secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.
A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge Villa must confront as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Could it be another reality whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to finding the net regularly.
- The attacking talent could transform into the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.
This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.
This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. As Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.
