The Astonishing Rich Vein of Form Fuels Villa's Improbable Title Charge

It was eight weeks prior that Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered as the Villa manager scolded him over not reading a penetrating pass. At that point, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his displays were an indicator or the reason of the side's broader struggles.

In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst was entirely much more joyous. After Rogers curled home his brace-sealing goal to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician discarded his coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The team were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, find themselves only three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Challengers?

This is a particularly tough question to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of the club, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing this season, even as the positive results have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games has the team posted an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a team which has strung together a ten-match winning streak, Villa seem curiously susceptible – but at the moment the margins are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with two precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again against the Red Devils.

The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the post from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

Is It Sustainable?

Logic says not. In the recent win, the opponents registered more shots and more direct attempts. The team has secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those fixtures.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. The forward, almost certainly, cannot maintain blasting the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is another reality whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the player he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

However, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like a vital Three Lions star.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As Rogers stood in front of the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These spells do not happen often and must be appreciated.