It was eight weeks ago that the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as his coach admonished him over not reading a pass in behind. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his displays were a symptom or the reason for the side's more general malaise.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, though, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. After the in-form star curled home his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss discarded his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win their opening six matches, are somehow only three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?
It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, even as the victories have accumulated.
According to statistical analysis, twice all season have Villa posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a club who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
The current approach seems to be to trade blows with rivals and then rely on their talisman to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Can It Last?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opposition had more efforts and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.
A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they must confront as the season progresses. The forward, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the ball into the top corner week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Could it be another reality where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures could still find their top level.
- The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The winger could transform into the force he was during his peak.
- The defensive duo are set to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would sit third at Christmas. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be leading a title charge while looking like an essential Three Lions star.
The current run should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. As Rogers stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
