In a thrilling Premier League encounter on Sunday, Aston Villa delivered a powerful statement in the title race, defeating Manchester United 2-1 at a vibrant Villa Park. The hero of the hour was Morgan Rogers, whose two superb goals secured a historic tenth consecutive victory for Unai Emery's side across all competitions.
Rogers' Brilliance Seals Historic Victory
The match was a tale of individual quality and relentless momentum. Morgan Rogers broke the deadlock late in the first half with a moment of pure skill, giving Villa a deserved lead. However, Manchester United struck back almost immediately. A mistake by Matty Cash gifted possession just before half-time, allowing Matheus Cunha to finish clinically and level the score.
The interval brought a significant blow for the visitors, as captain Bruno Fernandes was forced off with an apparent hamstring injury. This, combined with United's existing injury and suspension woes, left Ruben Amorim's side vulnerable. Villa capitalised in the 57th minute when Rogers showed more desire than defender Leny Yoro to pounce on a loose ball in the box, slotting home confidently for his sixth goal in as many league games.
Villa's Remarkable Transformation Under Emery
This victory is another chapter in Aston Villa's extraordinary season. The club now sits third in the Premier League table, just three points behind leaders Arsenal and one point behind Manchester City. They are chasing their first English league title since 1981. Their current run of ten straight wins is their best sequence in all competitions since 1914, while seven consecutive top-flight victories marks their strongest league streak since the 1989-90 season.
This rise is all the more stunning considering their terrible start to the campaign, where they managed only two points and one goal from their opening five matches—their worst beginning in 28 years. Under Unai Emery, Villa Park has become a fortress; they have suffered only one Premier League home defeat in 2025, a record better than any other side.
Consequences and the Road Ahead
Manchester United, who had lost just once in their previous 26 visits to Villa Park, were unable to halt the hosts' charge. Despite chances for an equaliser, including a missed header by Cunha and key saves from Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, United fell short. Amorim handed a debut to teenager Jack Fletcher late on, but the night belonged unequivocally to Aston Villa.
Unai Emery's wild celebration on the touchline, tossing his jacket in the air, encapsulated the passion and belief coursing through the club. The result firmly keeps the Midlands club in the title conversation, proving their credentials as genuine contenders. The question now is whether they can maintain this incredible momentum and end their four-decade wait for the league crown.
