It was eight weeks ago when the young forward stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his displays were an indicator or a cause of the team's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. When the in-form star drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Serious Hopefuls?
This is an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. History, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, even as the positive results have piled up.
According to Opta, on just two occasions have Villa registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a team which has put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – however currently the margins are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their star man to save the day with two precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more versus United.
Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of goal number one capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.
“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?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.
A reversion to average could be the biggest rival Villa must confront as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the football into the top corner week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be another reality where, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still return to peak condition.
- The main striker could start scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually come back from the treatment room, bolstering a periodically leaky defence.
Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.
The current run is to be savoured for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
