Just eight weeks ago when the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as his coach berated him for not reading a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his displays were an indicator or a cause for the team's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, however, the sideline response was decidedly more positive. After the in-form star swept in his second to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The team continued to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their opening six fixtures, are somehow just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?
It remains a rather hard question to resolve. History, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, while the positive results have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the side had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a team that have put together 10 in a row, they look curiously susceptible – but currently the fine lines are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with rivals and wait for their talisman to bail them out with two precise efforts. It happened against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and it happened against the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”
Is It Sustainable?
Logic says not. Against United, Manchester United managed more efforts and more direct attempts. The team has secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.
A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent the club have to face in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.
A Case for Belief
Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.
- The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent might become the performer he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine Rogers now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as an essential England player.
This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the hero positioned himself before the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.
