It was 60 days ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery admonished him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, the question was if his performances were a sign or a cause for the side's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. As Rogers drilled in his second to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team continued to ten wins in a row , having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, now sit only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Hopefuls?
It remains a rather hard question to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding in many games, while the positive results have accumulated.
Per the data, in only two games has the team had an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a side who have just won 10 in a row, they seem curiously susceptible – yet currently the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach appears to be to trade blows with the opposition before hoping their star man to rescue them with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened against the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.
A reversion to average could be the biggest rival Villa will encounter as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the football into the top corner indefinitely.
A Case for Belief
Could it be an alternative path whereby, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he was in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
This could contain the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought Rogers by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial England player.
The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. As the hero faced the North End after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.
