It was two months in the past that the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as his coach admonished him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a sign or the source for the side's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. After the England international curled home his second strike to restore his side's advantage, Emery ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, are somehow only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?
That’s a rather hard question to address. History, a general sense of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, even as the victories have stacked up.
As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a club which has strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – however currently the margins are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with rivals and wait for their star man to bail them out with some crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and again versus United.
The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Is It Sustainable?
Logic says not. Against United, Manchester United registered more shots and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.
Regression to the mean could be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.
- The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho might become the performer he was in Germany.
- The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.
This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would be third at Christmas. And most definitely back in October, nobody thought Rogers by the end of the year would be leading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.
This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
