Morgan Rogers scores twice as Aston Villa beat Manchester United 2 -1 to extend their winning run and close within three points of Premier League leaders
Aston Villa continued their stunning form with a 2-1 home win over Manchester United to keep their title push alive. The victory stretched their winning run to 10 matches in all competitions. It also moved Unai Emery’s side within three points of Premier League leaders Arsenal. Villa Park was in full voice throughout.
The performance was not flawless. Villa were forced to work hard against an organised United side. Moments of quality ultimately proved decisive. Morgan Rogers again delivered when it mattered.
The first half was evenly balanced. United enjoyed promising spells and tested Villa’s defence. Emiliano Martinez made an early save from Benjamin Sesko. At the other end Senne Lammens denied John McGinn.
Villa found the breakthrough just before half time. Rogers drifted inside from the left. He curled a precise finish beyond Lammens in the 45th minute. It was his sixth goal in six league games.
Villa’s lead lasted only moments. Matty Cash was caught in possession deep in his own half. Patrick Dorgu reacted quickly and fed Matheus Cunha. The forward finished calmly in stoppage time.
The goal rewarded United’s positive approach. Ruben Amorim’s side pressed with intensity. Cunha and Sesko both looked dangerous. The equaliser changed the momentum heading into the interval.
United suffered a major setback at the break. Captain Bruno Fernandes failed to return for the second half with a hamstring issue. His absence was keenly felt as Villa grew stronger.
Rogers struck again in the 57th minute. Ollie Watkins held the ball up well and slipped a clever pass inside. Rogers cut across Leny Yoro and curled another composed finish into the corner. The goal mirrored his first and lifted the crowd.
Rogers was the difference on the day. He struck the woodwork earlier and tested United throughout. John McGinn set the tone in midfield with relentless energy. Watkins’ link play was also crucial.
United had chances to respond. Cunha headed wide from six yards after the second goal. Martinez later saved from Mason Mount. Despite late pressure Villa defended with composure.
Villa registered 12 shots during the contest. Rogers accounted for seven of them. United finished with 14 attempts but lacked clinical edge. Man United enjoyed 57 percent possession.
The win marked Villa’s 10th straight victory in all competitions. It is their best run since 1914. Rogers became the first Villa player since 1998 to score twice in consecutive league matches.
Aston Villa travel to Chelsea on Saturday 27th December then a trip to leaders Arsenal follows on 30th December. They will look to maintain momentum during a busy festive period. Manchester United return to action on Boxing Day at home to Newcastle. Amorim faces a test with several key players unavailable.
