A mere two months prior when the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager admonished him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, with the team went six without a win, the question was if his displays were a sign or the source for Villa's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, however, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. After the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his coat, opened his arms and roared. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their opening six games, find themselves just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?
It remains a rather hard query to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, even as the victories have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a team that have just won 10 in a row, the Villans appear strangely fragile – yet at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to rescue them with some crisp finishes. It happened at Leeds, it happened in London, and it happened when facing United.
The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled precisely inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized 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 had more efforts and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.
A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge the club will encounter as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing the ball into the top corner forever.
Reasons for Optimism
Perhaps there is another reality where, rather than luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players may yet find their top level.
- Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
- The attacking talent could transform into the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a genuine bid, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward as the year closed would be leading a championship pursuit and appearing as a crucial England player.
The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As Rogers faced the North End after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.
