It was 60 days in the past when the young forward was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as his coach admonished him over failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, with the team endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or the source for the team's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
In the latest match, though, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. When the in-form star drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club were on their way to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen matches, are somehow just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Hopefuls?
That’s a particularly tough proposition to answer. History, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the wins have piled up.
According to Opta, twice all season have Villa posted an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a team who have just won a ten-match winning streak, they seem weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with rivals before hoping Rogers to bail them out with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred in London, and it happened versus Manchester United.
Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, bent just inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal proved to be 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. Against United, the opposition registered more efforts 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 statistical correction might be the most significant challenge the club must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing his shots into the top corner indefinitely.
Reasons for Optimism
Could it be another reality whereby, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still find their top level.
- The centre-forward could start finding the net regularly.
- The winger might become the performer he showed during his peak.
- The injured centre-backs will eventually regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky defence.
Maybe within that lies the seeds of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on one man.
Enjoying the Ride
But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine the midfielder now would be spearheading a championship pursuit while looking like an essential England player.
The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the match-winner positioned himself before the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods are rare in football and must be appreciated.
