It was eight weeks in the past when the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as the Villa manager admonished him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained if his displays were a sign or the source of Villa's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely decidedly more positive. As Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, find themselves just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Hopefuls?
That’s a particularly tough query to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, while the victories have accumulated.
According to Opta, in only two games has the side had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a team who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem curiously susceptible – but currently the fine lines are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic seems to be to exchange chances with rivals before hoping their talisman to rescue them with two crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and it happened against the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United had more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.
A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge the club have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Potential for Growth
Could it be an alternative path where, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
- The winger might become the player he resembled during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Maybe within that lies the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, nobody thought the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as an essential England player.
This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. As Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.
