Just 60 days prior that the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager berated him over not reading a through-ball. At that point, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or the source of the side's more general malaise.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, however, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. As the England international swept in his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their opening six matches, find themselves only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
That’s an exceptionally difficult query to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the positive results have piled up.
Per Opta, twice all season have Villa had an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a team that have just won 10 in a row, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their talisman to bail them out with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.
“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more shots and more efforts on goal. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.
Regression to the mean may well be the greatest opponent the club must confront in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Could it be another reality whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to scoring again.
- The attacking talent could transform into the force he was in Germany.
- The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, nobody expected this. Nobody thought the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.
The current run is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner faced the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
