A mere two months in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery admonished him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a sign or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. After Rogers drilled in his second to restore Villa's lead, the boss tore off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
That’s a particularly tough query to resolve. History, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, while the victories have piled up.
Per statistical analysis, in only two games has the team posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a side that have put together 10 in a row, they seem weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to save the day with some clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of his first capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“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?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those games.
A statistical correction could be the biggest rival they must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be an alternative path whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The winger could transform into the force he showed in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.
This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the hero stood in front of the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.
