🔗 Share this article

It was 60 days in the past when the Villa attacker found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager scolded him for missing a pass in behind. At that point, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a sign or a cause for the side's broader struggles.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. As Rogers drilled in his second strike to restore the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. The team marched on to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, now sit only three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?

It remains a rather hard query to resolve. History, a general sense of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.

As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a team that have strung together ten consecutive victories, they look weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with rivals and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and once more against United.

His opener stemmed from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the upright from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one 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?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

Regression to the mean could be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. The forward, surely, will not continue to blasting the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is another reality in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players might still find their top level.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent may rediscover the performer he resembled during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, strengthening a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

This could contain the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would sit in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

This remarkable period is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.