A mere 60 days prior that the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his performances were a symptom or the reason of the side's wider issues.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
On Sunday, however, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. When the England international swept in his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?
That’s a rather hard query to address. History, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, while the positive results have piled up.
As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the team had an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a team who have put together ten consecutive victories, the Villans look strangely fragile – but currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
The prevailing tactic seems to be to trade blows with rivals and then rely on Rogers to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal originated from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the upright from a wide position. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.
“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. During the latest victory, the opposition had more shots and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.
A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting the football past despairing goalkeepers forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists a different scenario where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.
- The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
- Jadon Sancho could transform into the player he was during his peak.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
This could contain the possibility for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely two months ago, few could imagine the young forward now would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like a crucial England player.
The current run must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. When the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful when the game ended orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.
