Just 60 days in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager admonished him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a symptom or the reason for Villa's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely far more favourable. After the in-form star drilled in his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team marched on to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their opening six fixtures, now sit just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?
That’s a particularly tough proposition to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding this season, even as the positive results have accumulated.
Per the data, in only two games have Villa posted an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side who have put together ten consecutive victories, Villa look curiously susceptible – yet currently the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for their star man to rescue them with two precise efforts. It happened at Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more when facing United.
Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, arced just inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of goal number one 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United 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 fixtures.
A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival the club must confront in the near future. Their key man, surely, will not continue to blasting the ball into the net's top corner week in, week out.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists an alternative path whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still return to peak condition.
- The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
- The winger might become the performer he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.
Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy 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 leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.
The current run is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. As the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
