🔗 Share this article

It was two months in the past when Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager admonished him for missing a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a sign or a cause of the side's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. After Rogers curled home his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , despite not winning any of their first six games, now sit just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?

This is a rather hard query to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.

Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa posted an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a side who have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans look curiously susceptible – yet right now the margins are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic appears to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their star man to save the day with some clinical strikes. It happened away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.

His opener stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced 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.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

Regression to the mean could be the biggest rival the club must confront in the near future. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting the ball into the top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is another reality where, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
• The winger may rediscover the player he resembled in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine the young forward now would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.

The current run must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.