A mere 60 days prior that the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager scolded him for not reading a through-ball. At that point, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained whether his performances were a symptom or a cause of the team's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, though, the sideline response was far more favourable. As the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning any of their first six matches, now sit only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Legitimate Hopefuls?
This is a particularly tough proposition to answer. History, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, even as the victories have accumulated.
As per Opta, twice all season has the side had an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a side who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look curiously susceptible – yet currently the margins are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping their star man to save the day with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more against United.
Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Logic says not. In the recent win, the opposition had more efforts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.
A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they will encounter in the near future. Their key man, surely, will not continue to thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be a different scenario in which, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures could still find their top level.
- The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent could transform into the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo are set to return from injury, bolstering a periodically leaky backline.
Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would be third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.
This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it feels so unlikely. As Rogers faced the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
