Just eight weeks prior that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager berated him for missing a pass in behind. At that point, with the team endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his performances were a sign or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. After the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, the boss discarded his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win , having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, now sit only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Serious Hopefuls?
This is a rather hard proposition to answer. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, even as the positive results have piled up.
As per the data, in only two games has the team posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a club who have strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa look strangely fragile – however right now the margins are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for their talisman to rescue them with some crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired in London, and again when facing the Red Devils.
The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced 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?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.
A statistical correction might be the greatest opponent they must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the football into the top corner week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Maybe there exists a different scenario whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs could still rediscover their best form.
- The main striker could start scoring again.
- Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he showed during his peak.
- The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, nobody expected this. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward now would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like an essential player for the national team.
This remarkable period is to be savoured exactly since it seems so surreal. As Rogers positioned himself before the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.
