Just two months prior when the Villa attacker found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.
“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. After Rogers swept in his second strike to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to ten wins in a row and despite not winning any of their first six games, now sit a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?
That’s a rather hard proposition to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the wins have piled up.
According to Opta, in only two games has the side registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear curiously susceptible – however right now the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic appears to be to trade blows with an opponent before hoping Rogers to save the day with two precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.
The initial strike came from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the upright from a wide position. For his second proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“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 opposition registered more shots and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.
A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge they must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, cannot keep on blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still find their top level.
- The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
- The winger might become the force he showed during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.
This could contain the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.
This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. When Rogers stood in front of the North End after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.
