Just 60 days prior when the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager berated him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or the reason of the team's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, however, the sideline response was much more joyous. When Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. The team marched on to ten wins in a row , despite not winning any of their first six games, now sit just three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?
This is a rather hard query to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team registered an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a team that have just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem strangely fragile – however at the moment the margins are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping Rogers to bail them out with some crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more when facing the Red Devils.
The initial strike came from a superb shot, curled right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
Is It Sustainable?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.
A statistical correction may well be the greatest opponent the club must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on drilling the football into the net's top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs could still find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. As Rogers faced the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.
