Just 60 days prior that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as his coach admonished him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his performances were a symptom or a cause of the side's broader struggles.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
On Sunday, however, the sideline response was entirely much more joyous. After the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. The team continued to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit only three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
This is a particularly tough question to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.
As per the data, twice all season have Villa registered an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a team that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping Rogers to rescue them with some clinical strikes. It happened away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.
His opener stemmed from a brilliant finish, bent right inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.
“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 had more shots and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.
Regression to the mean could be the most significant challenge the club must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is another reality where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.
- The main striker may begin to scoring again.
- The attacking talent could transform into the performer he resembled in Germany.
- The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial England player.
This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. When Rogers positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
