It was two months ago that the young forward stood on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as his coach berated him for missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his performances were a symptom or the reason for Villa's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, in contrast, the manager's outburst was far more favourable. When the England international swept in his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and roared. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their opening six matches, find themselves only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Challengers?
This is a rather hard query to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.
Per Opta, in only two games has the team registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a club that have strung together 10 in a row, they seem strangely fragile – however right now the margins are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach looks like to trade blows with rivals before hoping their star man to bail them out with two precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more when facing United.
The initial strike originated from an exquisite effort, curled precisely inside the upright from a wide position. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing 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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents managed more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.
A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival the club have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing the football into the top corner forever.
A Case for Belief
Maybe there exists an alternative path whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still return to peak condition.
- The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he resembled in Germany.
- The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, bolstering a periodically leaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a title challenge, but they surely can persist in leaning entirely on one man.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital England player.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero faced the North End after the match leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.
