This Remarkable Rich Vein of Form Fuels Aston Villa's Surprising Push for Glory

A mere two months in the past when Morgan Rogers found himself on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered as his coach berated him over missing a penetrating pass. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained if Rogers' form were a symptom or a cause for Villa's broader struggles.

In the latest match, though, the sideline response proved to be decidedly more positive. After the in-form star swept in his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, Emery tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their initial half-dozen fixtures, are somehow only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

This is an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

As per statistical analysis, twice all season has the side registered an xG notably superior than the opposition. For a team who have put together 10 in a row, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy seems to be to trade blows with rivals and wait for their talisman to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it transpired in London, and again versus Manchester United.

The initial strike originated from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents had more shots and more efforts on goal. The team has secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the most significant challenge the club must confront in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, cannot keep on thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario where, instead of results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still find their top level.

• The centre-forward may begin to scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the force he was at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while looking like a crucial England player.

This remarkable period is to be savoured exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner faced the North End after the match conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.