Just eight weeks ago that the Villa attacker was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as his coach scolded him over missing a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained if his displays were an indicator or the reason of the side's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, though, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. After the England international drilled in his second to restore Villa's lead, Emery discarded his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to ten wins in a row , after failing to win any of their first six games, now sit a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Serious Title Contenders?
That’s an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the victories have stacked up.
As per the data, twice all season has the team had an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a team who have put together ten consecutive victories, Villa appear strangely fragile – but right now the margins are swinging for them.
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 at Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more versus Manchester United.
The initial strike came from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
Is It Sustainable?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed more efforts and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those matches.
A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, will not continue to blasting his shots into the top corner forever.
Potential for Growth
Could it be another reality whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs could still find their top level.
- The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
- The winger could transform into the performer he showed during his peak.
- The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.
This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as a vital England player.
The current run is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.
