Just eight weeks prior when the Villa attacker was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while his coach scolded him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the source of Villa's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, however, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. When the England international swept in his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, Emery discarded his coat, spread his arms and roared. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their opening six games, are somehow only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?
That’s a rather hard proposition to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant this season, while the positive results have accumulated.
As per the data, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a side which has strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa seem curiously susceptible – but at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.
The Winning Formula
The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for Rogers to rescue them with some clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more versus United.
Rogers' first goal came from a brilliant finish, bent right inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of the opener 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, the opposition had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.
Regression to the mean could be the biggest rival they must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling his shots into the net's top corner forever.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins may begin to finding the net regularly.
- The winger may rediscover the player he showed during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, fortifying a periodically leaky defensive unit.
This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this is a surprise. Few believed the team would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought the midfielder by the end of the year would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential England player.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.
