Just two months prior when the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery admonished him over missing a pass in behind. Back then, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a sign or the reason for the side's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, however, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. When Rogers swept in his second strike to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery discarded his coat, spread his arms and roared. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their opening six games, find themselves only three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Challengers?
That’s an exceptionally difficult query to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.
As per Opta, in only two games has the side had an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a side who have just won 10 in a row, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – but at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on their talisman to bail them out with some precise efforts. It happened at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.
His opener originated from a superb shot, bent right inside the upright from a wide position. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.
“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents registered more shots and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.
A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge the club have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot maintain thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is another reality whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs could still return to peak condition.
- The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the force he was in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
But then, nobody expected this. Few believed Aston Villa would sit third at Christmas. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be leading a title charge and appearing as a vital England player.
This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it seems so surreal. As the match-winner faced the North End after the match leading the celebrations, he appeared to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
