Just two months in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager scolded him for missing a penetrating pass. At that point, as the club endured a six-game winless run, the question was if Rogers' form were a symptom or the source of Villa's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. After the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the boss discarded his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row and having failed to win their opening six fixtures, now sit only three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?
That’s a rather hard question to address. History, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, while the wins have piled up.
According to Opta, twice all season have Villa posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a team which has strung together ten consecutive victories, they look strangely fragile – however at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic seems to be to trade blows with rivals and then rely on their talisman to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened versus United.
Rogers' first goal came from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.
A reversion to average might be the biggest rival Villa must confront as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is another reality in which, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still find their top level.
- The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent could transform into the performer he showed during his peak.
- The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital Three Lions star.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. As the hero faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.
