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It was two months ago when Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while his coach berated him over missing a penetrating pass. Back then, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason of the side's wider issues.

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

On Sunday, however, the sideline response was entirely far more favourable. As Rogers curled home his second to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their opening six matches, now sit only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Are They Serious Challengers?

This is a particularly tough proposition to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, even as the positive results have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a side who have strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa appear weirdly vulnerable – however currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic seems to be to trade blows with rivals and wait for their talisman to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the upright from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one 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.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents had more efforts and more shots on target. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival they have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing his shots into the top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the performer he resembled during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, bolstering a sometimes shaky backline.

Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

However, nobody expected this. Nobody thought the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.

This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When Rogers faced the Villa faithful 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.