Just two months in the past that the Villa attacker found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as his coach admonished him over not reading a through-ball. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a sign or a cause for the side'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 touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. After Rogers curled home his second to restore the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to ten wins in a row and having failed to win their opening six fixtures, are somehow a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Serious Challengers?
It remains a rather hard question to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, even as the wins have stacked up.
Per Opta, in only two games have Villa posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a team that have just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the margins are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping Rogers to save the day with some precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.
His opener came from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“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.”
Can It Last?
Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.
Regression to the mean might be the biggest rival the club must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot maintain drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Perhaps there is 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.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he showed in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the seeds of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would sit third at Christmas. And most definitely back in October, few could imagine the young forward now would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential player for the national team.
The current run must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. As Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
