A mere two months ago when the Villa attacker was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery admonished him over missing a pass in behind. Back then, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained whether his performances were a sign or the source of the side's more general malaise.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. When the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their opening six matches, are somehow just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.
Are They Serious Hopefuls?
It remains a rather hard query to address. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the positive results have stacked up.
Per Opta, on just two occasions have Villa had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a team who have just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans look weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with rivals before hoping Rogers to save the day with some precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened when facing Manchester United.
The initial strike came from a superb shot, curled right inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.
“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?
Logic says not. In the recent win, the opposition registered more efforts and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all except one of those games.
Regression to the mean could be the greatest opponent Villa must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, surely, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the top corner week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be an alternative path where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho might become the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.
This could contain the potential for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would sit in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely back in October, no one envisioned Rogers now would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.
This remarkable period is to be savoured precisely because it seems so surreal. As Rogers faced the North End when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are rare in football and should be relished.
