Just 60 days prior when the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him over not reading a through-ball. Back then, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his displays were an indicator or the source of the side's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, however, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. After Rogers curled home his second to restore his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club marched on to ten wins in a row and having failed to win their opening six games, are somehow a mere three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?
That’s an exceptionally difficult proposition to answer. History, the perceived status of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, while the positive results have piled up.
Per the data, twice all season have Villa registered an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a club that have just won 10 in a row, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – but right now the margins are going in their favour.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on their star man to save the day with some crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.
His opener came from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.
Regression to the mean may well be the biggest rival Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the net's top corner forever.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent could transform into the performer he showed during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.
This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
However, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly earlier this season, no one envisioned the midfielder by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential player for the national team.
This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. As the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
