It was 60 days ago when the Villa attacker stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while Unai Emery admonished him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his performances were a sign or the reason of Villa's more general malaise.
“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”
On Sunday, however, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. After the in-form star swept in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to ten wins in a row and despite not winning their opening six games, now sit just three points off pace-setters Arsenal.
Are They Serious Title Contenders?
It remains a particularly tough proposition to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant during this run, despite the fact the positive results have piled up.
As per Opta, twice all season have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side that have just won ten consecutive victories, they appear strangely fragile – but right now the margins are falling their way.
The Reliant Strategy
Their recent policy seems to be to exchange chances with rivals and wait for their talisman to rescue them with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired in London, and again versus Manchester United.
The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.
“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, the opposition managed more efforts and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all but one of those games.
Regression to the mean might be the biggest rival Villa must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to blasting the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.
Potential for Growth
Could it be an alternative path in which, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs might still find their top level.
- The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
- The winger may rediscover the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.
Savoring the Moment
But then, this is a surprise. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought the young forward now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.
The current run must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
