It was two months ago when the Villa attacker was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery scolded him over not reading a through-ball. Back then, with the team went six without a win, the question was if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason for the team's broader struggles.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. After Rogers curled home his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa continued to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their opening six games, find themselves only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?
It remains a particularly tough question to address. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding this season, even as the wins have piled up.
As per the data, on just two occasions have Villa registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side which has strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa appear curiously susceptible – however right now the margins are going in their favour.
The Reliant Strategy
The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. It happened at Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again against United.
His opener originated from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the upright from a wide position. For his second acted as a slightly less clean iteration of the opener as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.
“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?
Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents had more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those matches.
A statistical correction might be the biggest rival they will encounter in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, will not continue to drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists another reality where, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet find their top level.
- The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
- The attacking talent could transform into the performer he was at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.
This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.
Enjoying the Ride
Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital player for the national team.
This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When Rogers positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
