🔗 Share this article

A mere eight weeks in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as his coach scolded him for not reading a through-ball. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, the question was if his displays were a sign or the source for Villa's more general malaise.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

This weekend, however, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. When the England international drilled in his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his coat, opened his arms and roared. The team continued to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, are somehow just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Hopefuls?

That’s a particularly tough question to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, even as the positive results have accumulated.

As per the data, twice all season has the team had an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a club who have strung together 10 in a row, they look curiously susceptible – however at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic seems to be to exchange chances with rivals and wait for Rogers to save the day with some precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more versus United.

His opener originated from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those games.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot maintain thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists an alternative path where, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent might become the performer he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward now would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.