It was 60 days ago that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while his coach berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained if his displays were a symptom or the source for the side's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, though, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. After the in-form star drilled in his second to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery tore off his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win any of their first six games, are somehow only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Title Contenders?
It remains a rather hard query to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.
According to Opta, twice all season have Villa posted an xG notably superior than the other team. For a team who have just won ten consecutive victories, they look curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the margins are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with two precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened in London, and once more against the Red Devils.
The initial strike originated from a superb shot, curled right inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a slight scruffier version of the opener 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.”
Can It Last?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.
A statistical correction could be the biggest rival they must confront in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, cannot keep on drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is a different scenario where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still return to peak condition.
- The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent could transform into the performer he showed during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
This could contain the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and should be relished.
