A mere two months ago that the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager admonished him over not reading a through-ball. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a sign or the reason for Villa's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, though, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. As the in-form star curled home his second to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss tore off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The team continued to a 10th successive win and having failed to win any of their first six games, are somehow only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?
It remains a rather hard query to resolve. History, a general sense of Villa, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been completely commanding this season, even as the victories have accumulated.
According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the team had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a club who have just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent before hoping Rogers to rescue them with some crisp finishes. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and it happened versus Manchester United.
The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, bent precisely inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of goal number one 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?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more shots 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 statistical correction may well be the greatest opponent they have to face in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling his shots into the top corner forever.
Potential for Growth
Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs may yet return to peak condition.
- The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers now would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital Three Lions star.
This remarkable period is to be savoured precisely because it feels so unlikely. As Rogers faced the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
