A mere eight weeks ago when the Villa attacker stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while his coach berated him for missing a through-ball. Back then, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained if his displays were a sign or the source for Villa's more general malaise.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. When the in-form star curled home his second strike to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team were on their way to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their opening six games, are somehow only three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?
It remains a rather hard proposition to address. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, they have not been completely commanding this season, even as the victories have accumulated.
According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the side had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a club who have just won a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
The current approach looks like to trade blows with an opponent before hoping their star man to save the day with some crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened versus Manchester United.
His opener came from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the upright from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
Can It Last?
Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more efforts and more direct attempts. The team has secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.
Regression to the mean might be the greatest opponent Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the net's top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is an alternative path whereby, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still return to peak condition.
- Ollie Watkins could start adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.
Maybe within that lies the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.
The current run must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. When Rogers stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
