Rogers the hero as Aston Villa beat Man United 2-1 in Christmas cracker
Morgan Rogers delivered a stunning match-winning display as Aston Villa claimed a thrilling 2-1 victory over Manchester United, moving to within three points of Premier League leaders Arsenal at Christmas and extending their best top-flight winning run in more than three decades.
The final whistle from referee Michael Oliver sealed a famous night at Villa Park, with Unai Emery’s side recording seven straight league wins for the first time since the 1989-90 season and further cementing their status as genuine title contenders.
Villa had struggled to impose themselves for much of the opening period, but Rogers produced a moment of magic to break the deadlock, bending a sublime effort into the far corner to give the hosts a lead they scarcely deserved.
The advantage was short-lived, however, as Matty Cash was punished for lingering on the ball, allowing Matheus Cunha to pounce on Patrick Dorgu’s touch and calmly slot home the equaliser for United.
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The first half ended level in a lively contest, with both sides trading chances and showing attacking intent. While United looked the more threatening in spells, Villa edged the expected goals before the break, underlining the fine margins separating the teams.
United’s task became tougher after the interval when captain Bruno Fernandes was forced off through injury, disrupting their midfield control and leadership. Despite that blow, Erik ten Hag’s men continued to create opportunities and would go on to post the higher overall xG (1.24 to 0.93), reflecting how competitive the contest remained.
But once again, Rogers rose to the occasion.
The forward struck for a second time with another superb effort, restoring Villa’s lead and igniting the home crowd. Just as he had in the previous week’s win over West Ham, Rogers proved decisive, showcasing composure and quality when his team needed it most.
United pushed hard for a response and were handed a golden chance when Cunha found space in the box, but the Brazilian squandered the opportunity to level, firing wide in what proved to be a pivotal moment.
Villa held firm in the closing stages, defending with discipline and maturity to see out the result and secure another vital three points in their impressive campaign.
The victory leaves Aston Villa just three points behind Arsenal at the top of the table at Christmas, sending a clear message that Emery’s side are serious contenders in this season’s title race.
For Manchester United, the defeat brings an end to their four-game unbeaten run and leaves them seventh in the standings, though still only three points off fourth in a congested Premier League table.
On a night of fine margins and high drama, it was Morgan Rogers’ brilliance that made the difference, as Aston Villa delivered a statement win over United in a captivating pre-Christmas encounter.
