Just 60 days prior that Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery berated him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator 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, however, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. After the in-form star swept in his second to restore Villa's lead, Emery tore off his jacket, opened his arms and roared. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, find themselves a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?
That’s a particularly tough proposition to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant in many games, even as the wins have stacked up.
Per the data, in only two games has the team registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side which has strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa look curiously susceptible – yet currently the margins are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent before hoping Rogers to save the day with two clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired in London, and again when facing the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal came from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Can It Last?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those games.
A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent Villa have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.
A Case for Belief
Could it be another reality where, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.
- The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he showed in Germany.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
But then, nobody expected this. Few believed Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward now would be leading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.
This winning streak is to be savoured exactly since it seems so surreal. When the match-winner faced the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
