Just two months in the past that the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while his coach scolded him over missing a pass in behind. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason for the team's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, though, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. When Rogers curled home his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves just three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?
That’s a rather hard question to resolve. History, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.
As per the data, twice all season have Villa had an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a club that have strung together a ten-match winning streak, they seem strangely fragile – however currently the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic appears to be to trade blows with the opposition and wait for Rogers to bail them out with some clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.
His opener came from a superb shot, bent just inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents managed more shots and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those matches.
Regression to the mean may well be the biggest rival the club have to face as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling his shots into the top corner indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Could it be an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still find their top level.
- The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
- Jadon Sancho might become the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, bolstering a periodically leaky backline.
This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder now would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital Three Lions star.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
