It was two months prior that the Villa attacker stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager admonished him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his performances were a symptom or the source for Villa's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. After the England international curled home his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win any of their first six matches, find themselves a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?
That’s a rather hard proposition to answer. History, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.
Per Opta, in only two games has the side registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a club that have strung together ten consecutive victories, they seem strangely fragile – however at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping Rogers to bail them out with two crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.
His opener originated from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the upright from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more shots and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.
A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge the club will encounter over the coming weeks. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain thrashing the ball into the top corner week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists another reality whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet find their top level.
- The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the force he was in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, few could imagine Rogers now would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like an essential England player.
This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the match-winner faced the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.
