Just two months in the past when the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while his coach scolded him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his performances were an indicator or the source of the team's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. As the England international swept in his second strike to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win and having failed to win their opening six matches, find themselves a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?
This is a rather hard proposition to address. History, a general sense of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, even as the positive results have stacked up.
According to Opta, in only two games have Villa registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a club who have just won 10 in a row, the Villans look weirdly vulnerable – but right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with the opposition and then rely on their star man to rescue them with some precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again against Manchester United.
His opener originated from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.
“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. In the recent win, the opponents managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.
A reversion to average may well be the greatest opponent Villa will encounter in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists another reality whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The winger could transform into the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
However, nobody expected this. Few believed Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.
The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.
