Just two months in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as his coach scolded him for failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as the club went six without a win, the question was whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason of Villa'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 far more favourable. When the England international curled home his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, now sit only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
This is a rather hard query to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.
Per statistical analysis, in only two games has the team posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side that have strung together 10 in a row, they appear curiously susceptible – however right now the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to save the day with some precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened versus United.
The initial strike came from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opposition managed more efforts and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.
A statistical correction could be the biggest rival they will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot keep on blasting the football into the top corner week in, week out.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists another reality where, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still return to peak condition.
- The centre-forward may begin to scoring again.
- The attacking talent might become the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, fortifying a periodically leaky defence.
This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential player for the national team.
This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. As Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
