Just eight weeks ago that the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery admonished him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or the reason of the side's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, though, the touchline reaction was entirely decidedly more positive. When the in-form star curled home his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team continued to ten wins in a row , despite not winning any of their first six fixtures, find themselves a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Serious Hopefuls?
That’s a rather hard query to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, even as the wins have piled up.
According to Opta, on just two occasions have Villa registered an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a club that have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – yet right now the margins are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach looks like to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with some clinical strikes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more against Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of his first capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.
“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”
Can It Last?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opposition managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those fixtures.
A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, will not continue to drilling the ball into the top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
- The winger may rediscover the player he showed in Germany.
- The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, bolstering a periodically leaky defensive unit.
This could contain the possibility of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital England player.
The current run must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and should be relished.
