It was eight weeks ago that the young forward stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, the question was whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason of the team's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, however, the sideline response was much more joyous. After the England international curled home his second to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The team continued to a 10th successive win , after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, now sit a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
It remains an exceptionally difficult query to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing this season, even as the victories have piled up.
Per Opta, on just two occasions has the team had an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a team who have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – but at the moment the margins are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. It happened at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and it happened against United.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced 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.”
Can It Last?
Logic says not. Against United, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.
A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge the club must confront in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing his shots into the top corner forever.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists another reality whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still return to peak condition.
- The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
This could contain the potential for a sustained push, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned the midfielder as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.
This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the hero positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.
