Just two months in the past that the young forward was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while his coach scolded him over missing a through-ball. During that period, with the team went six without a win, the question was whether his displays were an indicator or a cause of the team's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. When the England international drilled in his second to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. The team marched on to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, are somehow only three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Challengers?
That’s a rather hard question to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, while the positive results have stacked up.
As per the data, in only two games have Villa had an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a club which has just won a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear curiously susceptible – however right now the margins are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with the opposition and wait for their star man to save the day with some clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it happened in London, and once more versus the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, bent just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener 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.”
Can It Last?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more shots and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those games.
Regression to the mean could be the biggest rival the club must confront in the near future. Their key man, surely, will not continue to blasting the football into the net's top corner indefinitely.
A Case for Belief
Could it be another reality where, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward could start finding the net regularly.
- The winger might become the performer he resembled in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.
This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
However, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.
This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.
