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Just 60 days ago when the Villa attacker was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as his coach admonished him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his performances were a sign or the source for the team's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. As Rogers drilled in his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team continued to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their initial half-dozen games, now sit only three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

It remains an exceptionally difficult question to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Additionally, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, while the victories have accumulated.

According to the data, in only two games have Villa posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a side that have put together ten consecutive victories, they look curiously susceptible – yet right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with the opposition and then rely on their star man to rescue them with some crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more against the Red Devils.

His opener came from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. For his second acted as a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he pounced on a setup by his strike partner.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, Manchester United managed more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

Regression to the mean may well be the biggest rival they have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on drilling the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Maybe there exists another reality where, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs could still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the performer he showed in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, fortifying a sometimes shaky defence.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the midfielder as the year closed would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.

This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. As the hero positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.