Just two months ago when the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as the Villa manager admonished him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether his performances were an indicator 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, however, the sideline response was entirely much more joyous. When Rogers drilled in his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his coat, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their opening six matches, are somehow just three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Legitimate Hopefuls?
This is a particularly tough query to resolve. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been wholly dominant in many games, while the positive results have stacked up.
According to the data, on just two occasions has the team posted an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a side which has strung together a ten-match winning streak, they seem curiously susceptible – but currently the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for Rogers to rescue them with some clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again versus the Red Devils.
The initial strike came from a superb shot, bent right inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized 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?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents managed a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.
A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Potential for Growth
Could it be an alternative path whereby, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs might still find their top level.
- The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The winger might become the player he resembled during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.
Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward now would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital England player.
The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As the hero stood in front of the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.
