A mere eight weeks in the past that the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while his coach admonished him for not reading a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason 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, though, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. After Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their opening six games, are somehow a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?
It remains a particularly tough proposition to address. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, even as the victories have piled up.
As per the data, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a club which has strung together 10 in a row, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – yet right now the fine lines are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with rivals before hoping Rogers to save the day with some precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more when facing United.
Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, bent precisely inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opposition managed a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. The team has secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those fixtures.
Regression to the mean may well be the greatest opponent they have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, surely, will not continue to drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists another reality where, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
- The winger may rediscover the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
However, nobody expected this. Few believed Villa would sit third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.
This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As Rogers stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
