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A mere eight weeks prior that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, the question was whether his performances were a symptom or the reason of the team's wider issues.

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

This weekend, though, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. After Rogers drilled in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team continued to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, find themselves just three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

It remains a rather hard proposition to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the wins have accumulated.

As per the data, twice all season has the side posted an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a club that have put together a ten-match winning streak, they appear weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for their talisman to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. It happened against Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again against Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, arced right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of his first capitalizing 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.”

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opponents managed more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

A statistical correction could be the most significant challenge the club must confront in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, will not continue to thrashing his shots into the net's top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to scoring again.
• The attacking talent might become the player he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Maybe within that lies the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought the midfielder now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential Three Lions star.

The current run should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the hero stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.