Rogers Stars as Aston Villa Rally to Beat Leeds and Enter Premier League Top Four

Morgan Rogers scored twice in the second half to inspire Aston Villa to a 2-1 comeback win over Leeds United at Elland Road on Sunday, propelling the Villans into the Premier League’s top four.

Rogers, often favored by England manager Thomas Tuchel over Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham this season, had managed only one goal prior to his second-half brace.

After a slow start to the season with no wins in their first five games, Villa have now claimed six victories in their last seven league matches, putting themselves in Champions League contention.

Leeds, meanwhile, remain in the relegation zone and were left frustrated after failing to capitalize on a fast start. Early in the game, Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez protested a high challenge by Anton Stach, while Ezri Konsa cleared a ball off the line that rebounded in off Lukas Nmecha. Martinez later produced a fine save to deny Brenden Aaronson a second goal for the hosts.

Villa’s momentum shifted shortly after the break when Rogers equalized three minutes into the second half. The goal followed Unai Emery’s halftime substitution of Donyell Malen, whose cross was flicked into the far corner by Rogers at the near post.

Rogers then secured the win with a stunning free-kick from the edge of the Leeds box that curled over goalkeeper Lucas Perri. Leeds briefly thought they had equalized, but Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s handball nullified Daniel James’ cross, and Martinez later made a crucial low save from Pascal Struijk to preserve Villa’s victory.

The 23-year-old Rogers’ performance was pivotal in Villa’s rise up the table and showcased their resilience under Emery.

Opinion Nigeria News