A mere eight weeks ago that the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while the Villa manager berated him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, the question was whether 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.”
On Sunday, though, the sideline response was decidedly more positive. As the England international curled home his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to ten wins in a row and having failed to win any of their first six matches, are somehow only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Legitimate Challengers?
It remains an exceptionally difficult query to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, even as the positive results have accumulated.
According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a team that have strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – but at the moment the margins are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with the opposition and wait for their star man to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened in London, and again against the Red Devils.
His opener came from a superb shot, bent just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.
“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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents managed more efforts and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.
Regression to the mean might be the most significant challenge they have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.
A Case for Belief
Could it be a different scenario in which, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players could still find their top level.
- The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent might become the performer he showed during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.
This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Savoring the Moment
However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine the young forward now would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.
This remarkable period is to be savoured for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and must be appreciated.
