It was eight weeks prior when Morgan Rogers stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while his coach admonished him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were an indicator 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.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. When Rogers drilled in his second to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The team marched on to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?
This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, while the positive results have stacked up.
Per the data, twice all season have Villa had an xG notably superior than the other team. For a team which has just won 10 in a row, the Villans look weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping Rogers to save the day with two crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, arced right inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents managed more efforts and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.
A reversion to average might be the biggest rival they will encounter in the near future. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the top corner forever.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists an alternative path where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho might become the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky backline.
Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.
This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.
