A mere two months prior that the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager scolded him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, with the team failed to win in six, the question was whether his performances were a symptom or a cause of the team's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response was much more joyous. After the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, Emery tore off his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The team continued to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win any of their first six matches, find themselves a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?
It remains an exceptionally difficult query to answer. The historical record, a general sense of Villa, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, while the victories have accumulated.
Per Opta, twice all season have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – yet right now the fine lines are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for their talisman to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, bent right inside the upright from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one 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.”
Can It Last?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.
A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent Villa must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, surely, cannot maintain blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.
A Case for Belief
Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins could start finding the net regularly.
- The winger might become the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought the young forward now would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.
This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.
