🔗 Share this article

Just 60 days ago that the young forward stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while his coach berated him for missing a pass in behind. During that period, as the club failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if Rogers' form were a symptom or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

This weekend, though, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. When Rogers drilled in his second strike to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to a 10th successive win and despite not winning any of their first six matches, find themselves a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Serious Hopefuls?

That’s a particularly tough query to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, while the positive results have accumulated.

As per the data, in only two games have Villa registered an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a club which has just won ten consecutive victories, they look curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on their talisman to save the day with some clinical strikes. It happened against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again against Manchester United.

His opener originated from a brilliant finish, arced just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing 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?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opponents had more shots and more direct attempts. The team has secured their last eight victories by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge the club have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists another reality where, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs could still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward could start finding the net regularly.
• The winger could transform into the performer he showed during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would be in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine Rogers as the year closed would be leading a title charge while looking like an essential player for the national team.

This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. When Rogers positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.