Just eight weeks in the past when the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while Unai Emery scolded him for missing a through-ball. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a sign or a cause of the team's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. After Rogers curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. Villa continued to a 10th successive win and despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, find themselves a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Hopefuls?
That’s an exceptionally difficult question to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, while the wins have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a team who have put together 10 in a row, they appear weirdly vulnerable – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach looks like to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to rescue them with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.
His opener originated from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.
A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent they have to face in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain drilling the ball into the net's top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be a different scenario where, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he was during his peak.
- The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky defence.
This could contain the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely can continue to depend solely on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought the team would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like a crucial England player.
The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. When Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.
