It was two months ago that the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while Unai Emery admonished him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, with the team failed to win in six, doubts remained whether his displays were an indicator or the source for the side's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, though, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. After the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, spread his arms and roared. The team continued to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their opening six matches, now sit just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?
It remains a rather hard proposition to answer. History, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.
As per the data, twice all season has the side had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side which has just won ten consecutive victories, Villa look strangely fragile – yet currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with the opposition and wait for Rogers to save the day with two precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it occurred in London, and again versus the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, bent right inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing 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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those games.
A reversion to average may well be the greatest opponent Villa must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, will not continue to drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is another reality whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.
- The main striker might resume scoring again.
- The winger may rediscover the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, fortifying a periodically leaky backline.
Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder now would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.
The current run should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner faced the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.
