It was two months ago when the Villa attacker stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while his coach admonished him for not reading a pass in behind. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, the question was whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the source for the side's wider issues.
“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”
This weekend, though, the touchline reaction was entirely far more favourable. As the England international drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss discarded his winter coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, are somehow a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.
Is Aston Villa Legitimate Title Contenders?
That’s an exceptionally difficult query to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant in many games, despite the fact the victories have piled up.
As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure notably superior than the opposition. For a side which has put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – yet at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.
The Winning Formula
The prevailing tactic seems to be to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on their talisman to rescue them with some clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and once more when facing the Red Devils.
His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced 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?
Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, Manchester United registered more efforts and more shots on target. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.
A reversion to average could be the greatest opponent they must confront in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the football into the top corner forever.
Potential for Growth
Could it be a different scenario whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet return to peak condition.
- The centre-forward could start scoring again.
- The attacking talent could transform into the performer he showed in Germany.
- The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.
Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on one man.
Relishing the Unlikely
Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought the midfielder as the year closed would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.
This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. When the hero stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.
