It was eight weeks prior that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while his coach admonished him for not reading a pass in behind. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason of the side's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. When the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their opening six fixtures, are somehow just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Challengers?
That’s a rather hard query to answer. The historical record, a general sense of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, even as the victories have piled up.
As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the side had an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a club who have put together ten consecutive victories, they look weirdly vulnerable – however right now the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to save the day with some clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more versus United.
His opener originated from an exquisite effort, curled precisely inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.
“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?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.
A statistical correction could be the biggest rival they will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, cannot keep on thrashing his shots into the net's top corner indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists an alternative path where, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.
- The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
- The winger could transform into the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Maybe within that lies the seeds of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought the midfielder by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.
This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. As Rogers positioned himself before the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
