It was two months prior when the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while his coach admonished him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a sign or the source of the team'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 was decidedly more positive. As the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss tore off his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Challengers?
That’s a particularly tough query to resolve. History, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been wholly dominant this season, even as the victories have accumulated.
According to the data, on just two occasions have Villa posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a team that have put together 10 in a row, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – however right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping their star man to bail them out with two clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more when facing Manchester United.
His opener originated from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
Can It Last?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more efforts and more efforts on goal. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those matches.
A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent they will encounter in the near future. The forward, surely, cannot keep on drilling his shots into the top corner week in, week out.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists a different scenario in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players might still find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The winger could transform into the player he resembled in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
However, nobody expected this. Few believed the team would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.
The current run should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the hero faced the North End at the final whistle conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
