Just two months ago that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while his coach admonished him over missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his displays were a sign or the reason for the side's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. When Rogers curled home his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?
This is a particularly tough question to resolve. History, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, while the wins have stacked up.
As per the data, in only two games have Villa registered an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a club which has put together ten consecutive victories, they look strangely fragile – but right now the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
The current approach seems to be to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on their star man to save the day with two precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus the Red Devils.
The initial strike came from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.
“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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opponents registered more shots and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those matches.
A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival Villa will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is another reality where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho might become the player he showed during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.
The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner stood in front of the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
