A mere two months prior when the Villa attacker was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager berated him for missing a through-ball. During that period, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason of Villa's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, however, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. As the England international swept in his second to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The team continued to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves a mere three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?
That’s a particularly tough query to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.
According to the data, on just two occasions has the team had an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a side which has strung together 10 in a row, Villa look curiously susceptible – however right now the fine lines are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with an opponent before hoping their talisman to save the day with two crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and it happened when facing Manchester United.
His opener originated from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized 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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United registered more efforts and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those matches.
A reversion to average may well be the greatest opponent Villa must confront in the near future. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on drilling the football into the top corner indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be another reality whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho might become the performer he showed in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.
This could contain the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Savoring the Moment
However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would sit in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a title charge while looking like a vital England player.
This remarkable period must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. When Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
