It was 60 days prior that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager berated him over missing a through-ball. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a sign or the source for Villa's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, though, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. As the in-form star drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, spread his arms and roared. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six games, find themselves only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?
It remains a particularly tough query to resolve. History, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, while the positive results have piled up.
As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the side had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a team that have put together ten consecutive victories, they appear strangely fragile – however currently the margins are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition and wait for their star man to bail them out with some precise efforts. It happened against Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened versus Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing 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?
Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those games.
A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival the club will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.
A Case for Belief
Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet find their top level.
- The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he showed during his peak.
- The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the potential of a title challenge, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would sit third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward now would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a vital player for the national team.
The current run should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner faced the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
