It was eight weeks prior that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, the question was if Rogers' form were a sign or the source of the side'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 far more favourable. As Rogers curled home his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The team were on their way to ten wins in a row and despite not winning any of their first six matches, now sit only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?
That’s a particularly tough question to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, even as the positive results have stacked up.
As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the side registered an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a club that have put together 10 in a row, they appear curiously susceptible – however currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and wait for their star man to rescue them with some clinical strikes. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and once more versus the Red Devils.
The initial strike originated from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opposition registered more efforts and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.
Regression to the mean may well be the greatest opponent they will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the football into the net's top corner indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Could it be another reality whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to finding the net regularly.
- The winger may rediscover the player he resembled in Germany.
- The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.
Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder now would be leading a title charge while looking like a crucial England player.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. When Rogers stood in front of the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
