SOCCER: Superb Rogers double gives Aston Villa 2-1 win over Man Un

BIRMINGHAM, England — Morgan Rogers scored two superb goals as Aston Villa beat Manchester United 2-1 at home on Sunday, extending their winning streak to seven straight Premier League matches and 10 consecutive victories in all competitions.

Rogers, who has seven goals and three assists in 17 league appearances this season, helped lift Villa to third place in the standings with 36 points. They are now firmly in the title race, trailing leaders Arsenal on 39 points and Manchester City on 37.

Villa struggled to impose themselves for much of the first half, but the breakthrough came just before halftime. John McGinn picked out Rogers in the 45th minute, and the 23-year-old controlled the ball, kept it in play, cut into the penalty area and curled a brilliant shot into the top corner past goalkeeper Senne Lammens.

Manchester United briefly responded before the break when Matty Cash was dispossessed on the right side of the Villa penalty area. Matheus Cunha pounced on the loose ball and fired past Emiliano Martinez to level the score.

United’s momentum was short-lived, however, as captain Bruno Fernandes was forced off with an injury at halftime.

Fernandes was replaced by Lisandro Martinez, who is typically deployed in defense. The Argentine pushed forward and tested Villa early in the second half as United looked to regain control.

But Villa soon restored their lead. Rogers struck again in the 57th minute, curling another fine effort beyond Lammens to put the hosts back in front.

United substitute Shea Lacey later forced a save from Martinez, while Mason Mount sent a free kick over the bar, but Villa held firm to secure the win. The result left United seventh in the table as the home crowd celebrated Rogers’ standout performance.

“It’s hard work and long hours, and you want every shot to go into the top corner, so it’s nice when one does,” Rogers said. “You just have to keep trying. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. Lately, it has, and I’m happy.”

Rogers capped the afternoon by giving his shirt to a fan after the final whistle.

“The fans make football,” he added. “Playing without fans and playing with fans are two completely different sports. It’s so enjoyable playing here. We feel the support, and you can see it in our performances.” -Field Level Media/Reuters