A mere two months prior that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while his coach scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a sign or a cause of Villa's wider issues.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
On Sunday, though, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. After Rogers curled home his second strike to restore Villa's lead, Emery tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The team marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win any of their first six games, now sit just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?
It remains a particularly tough query to address. History, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.
As per Opta, in only two games has the side posted an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a side which has strung together 10 in a row, Villa appear strangely fragile – but currently the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
The current approach seems to be to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their star man to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again against Manchester United.
The initial strike originated from an exquisite effort, bent just inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of the opener capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“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. Against United, Manchester United registered more efforts and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.
A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent they will encounter as the season progresses. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the ball into the net's top corner week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists another reality whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.
- The main striker might resume scoring again.
- The attacking talent might become the force he resembled in Germany.
- The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like a vital England player.
This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. As the hero faced the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.
