Just two months prior when the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while his coach berated him over not reading a through-ball. During that period, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for Villa's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. As the in-form star drilled in his second strike to restore his side's advantage, the boss tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The team continued to ten wins in a row and despite not winning their opening six matches, now sit only three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?
That’s a particularly tough question to resolve. The historical record, a general sense of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.
Per Opta, in only two games has the side registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a club which has put together ten consecutive victories, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – however right now the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition and wait for their talisman to rescue them with some precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened against Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, bent just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced 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.”
Can It Last?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opposition managed more efforts and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.
Regression to the mean could be the most significant challenge the club must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the football into the net's top corner indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists a different scenario in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs may yet rediscover their best form.
- The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the player he showed in Germany.
- The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential England player.
This remarkable period is to be savoured precisely because it feels so unlikely. As Rogers stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
