Just two months prior that the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager admonished him over missing a pass in behind. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason of the team's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. After the England international curled home his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row and despite not winning any of their first six games, are somehow just three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?
That’s an exceptionally difficult query to answer. History, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, even as the positive results have piled up.
Per the data, in only two games has the side registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side which has put together 10 in a row, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – however right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with rivals and wait for their talisman to rescue them with two clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and again against the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the upright from the edge of the area. For his second proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of his first capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Logic says not. Against United, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.
A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent they must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still find their top level.
- The main striker could start finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.
This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title while looking like a vital player for the national team.
This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it appears so improbable. As the match-winner faced the North End after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
