Just eight weeks in the past when the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or a cause for Villa's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. When the England international swept in his second to restore his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their opening six matches, are somehow just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?
That’s a particularly tough proposition to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing this season, even as the positive results have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has put together ten consecutive victories, Villa appear strangely fragile – yet currently the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and it happened when facing United.
His opener originated from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener 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.”
Can It Last?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.
A statistical correction could be the biggest rival the club have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain thrashing the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho might become the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Maybe within that lies the seeds of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial England player.
This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it seems so surreal. When Rogers positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.
