A mere 60 days prior that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as the Villa manager admonished him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his performances were a sign or the reason for the team's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, however, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. When the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit a mere three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Title Contenders?
It remains a rather hard question to answer. History, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, while the wins have accumulated.
As per Opta, in only two games has the side registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side which has just won 10 in a row, the Villans appear strangely fragile – however currently the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent before hoping their talisman to save the day with two crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened against the Red Devils.
The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of the opener 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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.
A statistical correction could be the biggest rival they must confront as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists another reality whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still find their top level.
- The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho might become the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, fortifying a periodically leaky backline.
Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.
The current run must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. As the match-winner positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
