Just 60 days in the past that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, with the team failed to win in six, the question was whether his displays were an indicator or the source for the side's broader struggles.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely far more favourable. As Rogers drilled in his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa continued to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, now sit just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Hopefuls?
This is a particularly tough proposition to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, even as the wins have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa had an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side that have strung together ten consecutive victories, they look strangely fragile – but currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach looks like to trade blows with rivals and wait for their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened against United.
Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, curled just inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced 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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Logic says not. Against United, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.
A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge the club will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the net's top corner week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists an alternative path where, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs may yet return to peak condition.
- The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.
Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would sit third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero faced the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
