Just eight weeks ago when the Villa attacker was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while his coach scolded him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a symptom or the source of the side's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. As the in-form star curled home his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, find themselves a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?
This is a particularly tough proposition to resolve. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.
Per statistical analysis, in only two games has the team had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem curiously susceptible – however right now the margins are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach looks like to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on their talisman to rescue them with two precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more when facing Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one 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.”
Can It Last?
Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opposition managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.
A reversion to average could be the biggest rival they will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, surely, will not continue to blasting the ball into the net's top corner forever.
Potential for Growth
Could it be a different scenario in which, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins might resume scoring again.
- The winger could transform into the performer he was during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.
This remarkable period is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. When Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.
