It was 60 days in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager berated him over missing a through-ball. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator 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, however, the touchline reaction was entirely decidedly more positive. After the in-form star swept in his second strike to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win , despite not winning their opening six games, find themselves a mere three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?
It remains a particularly tough query to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding during this run, while the wins have piled up.
Per the data, on just two occasions have Villa posted an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side that have strung together ten consecutive victories, the Villans look weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with rivals before hoping Rogers to save the day with two precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.
Rogers' first goal originated from a superb shot, arced precisely inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”
Is It Sustainable?
Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opponents managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. The team has won each of their last eight by just one goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those fixtures.
A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge the club must confront in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on blasting the ball into the top corner forever.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins could start finding the net regularly.
- The attacking talent could transform into the player he was in Germany.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.
This remarkable period must be cherished precisely because it feels so unlikely. As Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.
