A mere 60 days in the past when Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while his coach berated him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or a cause for the team's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, in contrast, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. After Rogers drilled in his second to restore the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their opening six games, find themselves only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?
It remains a rather hard proposition to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, while the positive results have accumulated.
According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the side posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side that have put together ten consecutive victories, they appear weirdly vulnerable – however right now the margins are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping their talisman to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened against United.
The initial strike came from a brilliant finish, bent right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“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. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more efforts and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those fixtures.
A reversion to average could be the biggest rival they will encounter as the season progresses. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists an alternative path where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential player for the national team.
This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the match-winner stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
