Just eight weeks ago when the young forward stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for the team's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, though, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. As the England international curled home his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their initial half-dozen matches, now sit a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Title Contenders?
This is a rather hard query to resolve. History, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, even as the positive results have stacked up.
Per Opta, twice all season has the team had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has put together 10 in a row, they seem curiously susceptible – but right now the margins are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the post from a wide position. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced 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. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more shots and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.
A statistical correction might be the greatest opponent Villa will encounter in the near future. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists a different scenario in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still find their top level.
- The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho might become the player he showed during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, bolstering a periodically leaky backline.
This could contain the potential for a sustained push, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.
This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. As the match-winner positioned himself before the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and must be appreciated.
