🔗 Share this article

A mere two months ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager scolded him for not reading a pass in behind. During that period, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a symptom or the reason of the side's wider issues.

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

This weekend, though, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. When the England international curled home his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, now sit just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Hopefuls?

It remains a rather hard proposition to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, while the victories have accumulated.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the team registered an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, they seem curiously susceptible – yet currently the margins are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with the opposition before hoping their talisman to save the day with some clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened against United.

His opener came from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the upright from a wide position. For his second proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced 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.”

Can It Last?

Logic says not. Against United, Manchester United had more shots and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the ball into the top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality whereby, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are set to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. When Rogers stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.