A mere 60 days ago when the Villa attacker found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a sign or the source for the side's more general malaise.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. After the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, are somehow a mere three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?
This is a rather hard proposition to address. History, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, they have not been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.
As per the data, twice all season has the team registered an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side who have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans look strangely fragile – yet currently the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
The current approach appears to be to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping their star man to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.
His opener came from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing 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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents had more efforts and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those matches.
A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent Villa must confront in the near future. The forward, surely, will not continue to thrashing the football into the top corner indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The winger might become the force he was during his peak.
- The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned Rogers now would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
