The Astonishing Rich Vein of Form Propels The Villans' Improbable Push for Glory

A mere eight weeks in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a sign or the reason of Villa's wider issues.

In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction was much more joyous. As Rogers curled home his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club were on their way to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their opening six matches, are somehow only three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

That’s a particularly tough question to address. The historical record, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, even as the wins have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the team registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a team that have strung together 10 in a row, they seem curiously susceptible – however at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic appears to be to trade blows with the opposition and wait for Rogers to save the day with some crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and again when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents managed more shots and more shots on target. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival the club have to face over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, will not continue to blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is an alternative path where, instead of results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet rediscover their best form.

• The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the force he was during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely earlier this season, nobody thought the midfielder as the year closed would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like an essential player for the national team.

This remarkable period must be cherished precisely because it seems so surreal. As the hero faced the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.