🔗 Share this article

Just two months prior that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach admonished him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or the reason for the team'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 much more joyous. As the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery discarded his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, are somehow just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Serious Hopefuls?

This is a rather hard proposition to resolve. Past precedent, a general sense of the club, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant in many games, even as the wins have stacked up.

According to the data, twice all season have Villa had an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side who have just won ten consecutive victories, Villa look curiously susceptible – however currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to rescue them with two clinical strikes. It happened away to Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again against United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opposition registered a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. The team has won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those fixtures.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge the club must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists a different scenario in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs could still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger may rediscover the force he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like a vital Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero positioned himself before the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.