It was 60 days ago when the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as the Villa manager admonished him over missing a pass in behind. During that period, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for Villa's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst was far more favourable. After Rogers drilled in his second strike to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery tore off his coat, opened his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win their opening six matches, are somehow a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?
It remains a rather hard question to answer. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, while the victories have stacked up.
According to statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a club that have put together 10 in a row, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the margins are falling their way.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach seems to be to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for Rogers to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. This occurred away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened when facing Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, curled right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.
A statistical correction could be the biggest rival Villa must confront in the near future. Rogers, surely, will not continue to thrashing the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists an alternative path where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs might still find their top level.
- The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
However, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while looking like a vital player for the national team.
This winning streak is to be savoured precisely because it seems so surreal. As Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are rare in football and must be appreciated.
