Just eight weeks ago when the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while his coach berated him for missing a pass in behind. During that period, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or the reason for the team'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. When the England international drilled in his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team continued to ten wins in a row and after failing to win their opening six games, now sit just three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?
That’s a rather hard question to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing during this run, even as the victories have stacked up.
As per Opta, twice all season has the side posted an xG notably superior than the other team. For a side who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem strangely fragile – yet currently the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach seems to be to trade blows with an opponent and wait for their talisman to bail them out with some precise efforts. It happened against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened versus Manchester United.
His opener originated from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized 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.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents registered more shots and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.
A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the net's top corner forever.
Potential for Growth
Could it be an alternative path whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he was during his peak.
- The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a periodically leaky defensive unit.
This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Savoring the Moment
However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And most definitely two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while looking like an essential player for the national team.
This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it seems so surreal. As the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
