Just eight weeks in the past when the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager berated him for missing a through-ball. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, the question was whether Rogers' form were a sign or the source of Villa's wider issues.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
In the latest match, however, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. After the England international swept in his second strike to restore Villa's lead, the boss tore off his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning any of their first six matches, now sit just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Legitimate Challengers?
This is an exceptionally difficult query to address. History, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, while the positive results have accumulated.
As per Opta, on just two occasions has the side had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a club who have put together ten consecutive victories, Villa look curiously susceptible – but currently the fine lines are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their star man to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.
His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
Is It Sustainable?
Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opponents registered more efforts and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.
A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge they must confront in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Potential for Growth
Could it be an alternative path in which, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet return to peak condition.
- The centre-forward may begin to finding the net regularly.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. As the hero positioned himself before the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
