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It was eight weeks prior that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as his coach admonished him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. At that point, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear if his performances were a sign or the reason for the side's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. After Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his coat, opened his arms and roared. The team continued to ten wins in a row and after failing to win any of their first six games, find themselves only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Challengers?

It remains a particularly tough query to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, even as the positive results have stacked up.

As per the data, twice all season has the side had an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a team which has put together 10 in a row, they look weirdly vulnerable – however at the moment the margins are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy appears to be to trade blows with an opponent and then rely on their star man to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and once more against United.

The initial strike came from an exquisite effort, bent right inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

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

Can It Last?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents had more shots and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in nearly all of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the biggest rival they must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Maybe there exists an alternative path whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the performer he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs will eventually return from injury, fortifying a sometimes shaky defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought Rogers now would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential England player.

This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it appears so improbable. When the match-winner faced the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are rare in football and ought to be celebrated.