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Just 60 days in the past when Morgan Rogers found himself on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while his coach scolded him over not reading a penetrating pass. Back then, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a symptom or the reason of Villa's more general malaise.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

On Sunday, however, the sideline response was entirely much more joyous. When Rogers curled home his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The team continued to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their initial half-dozen games, are somehow a mere three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?

It remains a particularly tough question to address. History, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, while the victories have accumulated.

According to Opta, on just two occasions has the side posted an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a club who have put together ten consecutive victories, Villa appear strangely fragile – but currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to bail them out with two precise efforts. This occurred against Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the goal frame from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opposition had more shots and more direct attempts. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.

Regression to the mean may well be the most significant challenge they must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the football into the top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists an alternative path whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still return to peak condition.

• The main striker may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho might become the performer he was in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are due to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky defence.

This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And without a doubt two months ago, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be leading a hunt for the title while looking like an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it seems so surreal. When the match-winner positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.