Just eight weeks ago that the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while his coach scolded him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or the reason for the side's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, though, the sideline response was entirely much more joyous. After the in-form star curled home his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team continued to a 10th successive win , despite not winning any of their first six games, are somehow only three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Serious Hopefuls?
It remains an exceptionally difficult question to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the positive results have piled up.
Per Opta, twice all season has the side had an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a team who have put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear strangely fragile – however currently the fine lines are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with the opposition before hoping their star man to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he pounced 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?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.
A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge they have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is another reality in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward could start finding the net regularly.
- The winger might become the force he resembled in Germany.
- The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a periodically leaky defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
However, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital England player.
This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As Rogers faced the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
