Just two months ago when the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him over missing a pass in behind. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, the question was whether his displays were an indicator or the reason of Villa's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, however, the sideline response was entirely far more favourable. After the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their initial half-dozen matches, now sit just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Challengers?
This is a particularly tough proposition to address. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, even as the wins have accumulated.
As per the data, twice all season have Villa posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side who have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa look curiously susceptible – however right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.
His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. 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. Against United, the opponents managed more shots and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.
A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge they will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the ball into the top corner forever.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists a different scenario where, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still find their top level.
- The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
- The winger could transform into the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.
Maybe within that lies the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential England player.
This remarkable period is to be savoured exactly since it feels so unlikely. As Rogers faced the Villa faithful when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are rare in football and should be relished.
