A mere 60 days prior when the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the source of Villa's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. As the in-form star drilled in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss tore off his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their opening six fixtures, find themselves a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?
That’s an exceptionally difficult question to address. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, they have not been completely commanding this season, while the wins have stacked up.
As per Opta, in only two games have Villa posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a team who have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear curiously susceptible – but at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with rivals and wait for their talisman to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized on a pass from Watkins.
“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. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more efforts and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.
A reversion to average may well be the greatest opponent the club will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, surely, cannot keep on drilling his shots into the top corner week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists an alternative path where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho might become the performer he was during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.
This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.
Savoring the Moment
However, nobody expected this. Few believed the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned the midfielder by the end of the year would be leading a title charge and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.
This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner faced the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.
