A mere eight weeks ago when the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager admonished him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained if Rogers' form were an indicator or the source of the side's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, though, the touchline reaction was decidedly more positive. After the in-form star swept in his second to restore his side's advantage, Emery discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, now sit just three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?
That’s an exceptionally difficult query to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they have not been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.
According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the side registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side which has put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with a couple of crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it transpired in London, and again when facing Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the upright from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one as he pounced 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Logic says not. In the recent win, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.
Regression to the mean may well be the most significant challenge the club will encounter as the season progresses. Their key man, surely, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the net's top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be a different scenario in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet find their top level.
- The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital player for the national team.
The current run is to be savoured for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful after the match conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.
