Just eight weeks ago that the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager scolded him over not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, the question was if his performances were a sign or a cause of the team's more general malaise.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, however, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. As the in-form star curled home his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to ten wins in a row and despite not winning any of their first six matches, now sit just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Challengers?
It remains a particularly tough query to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.
As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the team registered an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side who have put together 10 in a row, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – however right now the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with the opposition and wait for their talisman to rescue them with two precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again against United.
The initial strike originated from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized 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?
Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.
Regression to the mean may well be the most significant challenge Villa must confront in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is another reality in which, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder now would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital England player.
This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and must be appreciated.
