Just eight weeks ago when the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager berated him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained if his performances were an indicator or the reason for the team's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. After the England international curled home his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, find themselves just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Legitimate Hopefuls?
This is a particularly tough proposition to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, even as the positive results have piled up.
Per Opta, twice all season has the team posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side which has just won ten consecutive victories, Villa look curiously susceptible – yet right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent before hoping their talisman to rescue them with some clinical strikes. It happened against Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the post from a wide position. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced 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.”
Can It Last?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more efforts and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.
A reversion to average could be the biggest rival they have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is another reality whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still return to peak condition.
- The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he showed during his peak.
- The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.
This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.
This winning streak is to be savoured exactly since it appears so improbable. As the hero positioned himself before the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and must be appreciated.
