A mere eight weeks prior when the Villa attacker was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager scolded him over missing a through-ball. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, the question was whether Rogers' form were a symptom or a cause for Villa's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, however, the sideline response was entirely much more joyous. As the in-form star swept in his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa continued to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, find themselves just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?
This is a rather hard query to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been entirely convincing during this run, while the wins have stacked up.
Per the data, on just two occasions have Villa posted an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a side who have just won ten consecutive victories, they seem weirdly vulnerable – however currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach seems to be to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping Rogers to save the day with some precise efforts. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.
His opener originated from a superb shot, arced right inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized 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?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those games.
A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the ball into the net's top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is an alternative path where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still return to peak condition.
- The main striker might resume scoring again.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.
The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When the hero positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.
