Just 60 days in the past when the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery admonished him over missing a pass in behind. During that period, with the team failed to win in six, doubts remained if his performances were a sign or the reason of the team's wider issues.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
This weekend, though, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. As the in-form star swept in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row and despite not winning any of their first six matches, now sit a mere three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Hopefuls?
It remains a rather hard question to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.
Per Opta, on just two occasions have Villa posted an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a team that have strung together ten consecutive victories, the Villans look weirdly vulnerable – but right now the margins are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
The current approach looks like to trade blows with the opposition and then rely on their star man to rescue them with some crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one 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.”
Can It Last?
Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opposition had more shots and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those games.
Regression to the mean might be the most significant challenge the club have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, cannot maintain blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, rather than results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still find their top level.
- The main striker may begin to scoring again.
- The winger may rediscover the player he showed in Germany.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.
This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Savoring the Moment
Yet, nobody expected this. Few believed Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge while looking like an essential player for the national team.
The current run is to be savoured exactly since it seems so surreal. As the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
