A mere two months prior that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while Unai Emery scolded him over missing a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a symptom or a cause of Villa's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, though, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. As Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery tore off his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. The team marched on to ten wins in a row and having failed to win their opening six matches, now sit just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Serious Challengers?
That’s an exceptionally difficult query to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.
According to statistical analysis, twice all season have Villa had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a team which has strung together 10 in a row, they appear curiously susceptible – however currently the fine lines are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition before hoping Rogers to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more when facing Manchester United.
His opener came from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the upright from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Is It Sustainable?
Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.
A statistical correction might be the greatest opponent Villa must confront in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot maintain drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
- The winger may rediscover the force he was in Germany.
- The defensive duo are set to return from injury, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.
This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine the young forward now would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential England player.
This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the hero faced the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.
