A mere two months ago that the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him for missing a pass in behind. During that period, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a sign or a cause of the team's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, though, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. As the England international curled home his second to reinstate Villa's lead, the boss tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their opening six matches, are somehow just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?
This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, even as the positive results have piled up.
According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the team registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a team who have just won a ten-match winning streak, they appear strangely fragile – however currently the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach looks like to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their talisman to rescue them with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again versus United.
The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, Manchester United had more shots and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those games.
A statistical correction may well be the greatest opponent they have to face in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, cannot keep on blasting his shots into the net's top corner week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Could it be an alternative path whereby, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
- The winger could transform into the player he showed during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.
Maybe within that lies the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would sit in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.
This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
