It was eight weeks in the past that the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while his coach berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, the question was whether Rogers' form were a sign or the source for Villa's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response was much more joyous. As the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win and after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow only three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Hopefuls?
This is a particularly tough query to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, even as the wins have accumulated.
According to the data, twice all season has the side had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side that have strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with the opposition before hoping their star man to rescue them with some clinical strikes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and it happened when facing United.
The initial strike came from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he seized 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.
A statistical correction might be the biggest rival Villa will encounter in the near future. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing the football into the net's top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.
- The main striker may begin to scoring again.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like an essential player for the national team.
This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. As Rogers positioned himself before the North End after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.
