Just eight weeks prior when the Villa attacker was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while his coach admonished him for missing a penetrating pass. At that point, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a symptom or the source of Villa's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst was far more favourable. When the England international swept in his second to reinstate Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, opened his arms and roared. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win , after failing to win any of their first six matches, are somehow just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Serious Challengers?
This is a particularly tough question to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, even as the wins have accumulated.
Per statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side who have put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans appear weirdly vulnerable – yet right now the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it happened in London, and again when facing the Red Devils.
The initial strike originated from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.
A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on blasting the ball into the top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs could still return to peak condition.
- The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the force he was in Germany.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.
Maybe within that lies the possibility of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like an essential England player.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
