It was two months in the past that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as Unai Emery scolded him for not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his displays were a sign or the source of the team's broader struggles.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
In the latest match, however, the sideline response was much more joyous. As the in-form star swept in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery discarded his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win any of their first six games, are somehow just three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?
This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant during this run, even as the wins have accumulated.
Per Opta, twice all season has the side had an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a club that have just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans look curiously susceptible – but currently the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping their star man to save the day with some precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened versus the Red Devils.
His opener came from a brilliant finish, bent precisely inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing 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. In the recent win, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. The team has secured their last eight victories by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.
A reversion to average may well be the greatest opponent the club have to face in the near future. Their key man, surely, will not continue to thrashing the ball into the net's top corner week in, week out.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is a different scenario where, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs might still return to peak condition.
- The centre-forward could start adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he showed in Germany.
- The defensive duo will eventually return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, but they surely can continue to depend solely on one man.
Savoring the Moment
But then, nobody expected this. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And certainly back in October, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial England player.
The current run must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. As the hero stood in front of the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.
