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A mere two months prior that Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as his coach berated him for missing a through-ball. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether his displays were an indicator or the source for the side's broader struggles.

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

In the latest match, though, the touchline reaction proved to be much more joyous. After the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, are somehow a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?

It remains a particularly tough query to resolve. Past precedent, a general sense of the club, suggests not. Furthermore, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

As per Opta, on just two occasions have Villa posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a club which has put together ten consecutive victories, Villa appear curiously susceptible – but currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with an opponent and wait for Rogers to save the day with some crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again versus United.

His opener came from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of his first 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?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opposition managed more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those games.

A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge they must confront over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, cannot keep on drilling the football into the top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho might become the player he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are set to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine the young forward now would be leading a championship pursuit while looking like a vital player for the national team.

This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When Rogers stood in front of the home supporters after the match conducting the cheers, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.