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A mere eight weeks in the past that Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while his coach berated him over missing a penetrating pass. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a sign or the source of the side's broader struggles.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

On Sunday, however, the manager's outburst proved to be much more joyous. After Rogers swept in his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the boss discarded his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves only three points adrift of pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?

That’s a particularly tough query to address. History, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the wins have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the side had an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a club that have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – however at the moment the margins are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and then rely on their talisman to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it occurred in London, and once more against Manchester United.

His opener stemmed from a brilliant finish, bent right inside the upright from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“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. During the latest victory, the opponents managed more shots and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge Villa must confront in the near future. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, instead of luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still return to peak condition.

• The centre-forward may begin to scoring again.
• The winger might become the player he was during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.

The current run is to be savoured for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As the hero faced the Villa faithful at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.