It was two months prior when the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery berated him for missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club went six without a win, doubts remained if his performances were an indicator or the source of the side's wider issues.
“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”
On Sunday, however, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. After the England international swept in his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa continued to a 10th successive win , having failed to win any of their first six games, are somehow just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.
Are They Genuine Title Contenders?
It remains an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. History, a general sense of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding during this run, despite the fact the positive results have accumulated.
As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side which has just won ten consecutive victories, Villa look curiously susceptible – but at the moment the margins are swinging for them.
The Rogers Recipe
The current approach looks like to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their talisman to save the day with some crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened versus the Red Devils.
His opener stemmed from a superb shot, curled just inside the post from a wide position. For his second 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.”
Is It Sustainable?
Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents had more efforts and more efforts on goal. The team has secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those fixtures.
Regression to the mean might be the most significant challenge the club must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting the ball into the top corner week in, week out.
Potential for Growth
Maybe there exists an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still return to peak condition.
- The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
- The attacking talent could transform into the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
- The defensive duo are due to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Perhaps there is in that the possibility for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would sit third at Christmas. And certainly earlier this season, few could imagine Rogers now would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial England player.
This remarkable period is to be savoured exactly since it appears so improbable. When the hero positioned himself before the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
