A mere eight weeks in the past that the Villa attacker was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him for missing a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, the question was whether his performances were a symptom or the reason of the team's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, though, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. As the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their opening six matches, now sit just three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Challengers?
That’s a particularly tough proposition to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, while the positive results have stacked up.
As per Opta, in only two games have Villa posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side that have put together ten consecutive victories, Villa seem curiously susceptible – but right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with rivals before hoping their star man to save the day with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.
The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the post from the edge of the area. 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Logic says not. Against United, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.
A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent they have to face as the season progresses. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is another reality where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.
- The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
- The winger could transform into the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while looking like a vital England player.
This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As Rogers faced the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
