Just eight weeks ago when the Villa attacker was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager berated him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were an indicator or the source of the side's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, however, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. When Rogers drilled in his second to restore the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, are somehow only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Challengers?
This is a particularly tough proposition to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, while the victories have stacked up.
According to the data, on just two occasions has the team posted an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has strung together 10 in a row, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – but at the moment the margins are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping their star man to save the day with two crisp finishes. It happened away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and again versus United.
His opener came from a superb shot, bent just inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents registered more efforts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.
A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge they have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.
A Case for Belief
Perhaps there is an alternative path where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs might still rediscover their best form.
- The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The winger may rediscover the player he was during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.
This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner faced the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.
