It was two months prior that the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery scolded him over missing a penetrating pass. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained if his displays were a sign or the reason for Villa's broader struggles.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
This weekend, however, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. As the in-form star curled home his second to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to ten wins in a row , after failing to win any of their first six matches, are somehow just three points off the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?
It remains an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing in many games, even as the victories have piled up.
According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the team posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a club which has put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear strangely fragile – but right now the margins are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with rivals and then rely on their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened versus United.
His opener came from a superb shot, arced right inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.
“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”
How Long Can This Continue?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United registered more efforts and more efforts on goal. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.
A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge they will encounter as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting the football into the net's top corner forever.
A Case for Belief
Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.
- Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
- The attacking talent might become the force he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.
Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned Rogers as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential player for the national team.
This remarkable period must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. As the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.
