Just two months prior that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager berated him over missing a pass in behind. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, the question was whether Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause of the side's more general malaise.
“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 far more favourable. After Rogers curled home his second to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win any of their first six matches, are somehow a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?
That’s a particularly tough question to answer. History, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the positive results have piled up.
According to statistical analysis, twice all season have Villa had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a club who have just won ten consecutive victories, they appear weirdly vulnerable – yet right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their star man to rescue them with two clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it happened in London, and again against the Red Devils.
His opener stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the post from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.
“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 more efforts and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.
A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge they will encounter over the coming weeks. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting the football into the top corner forever.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still find their top level.
- The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the force he was in Germany.
- The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defence.
This could contain the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine the young forward now would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like a crucial Three Lions star.
The current run is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. When Rogers positioned himself before the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and should be relished.
