This Remarkable Scoring Streak Drives The Villans' Improbable Push for Glory

A mere 60 days ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered while his coach admonished him over missing a through-ball. At that point, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a sign or a cause for the team's broader struggles.

In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. As Rogers drilled in his second to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery ripped off his winter coat, spread his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to ten wins in a row , after failing to win their opening six games, are somehow only three points behind table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?

It remains a particularly tough proposition to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, suggests not. Moreover, they have not been completely commanding in many games, while the victories have accumulated.

According to Opta, twice all season has the side registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a team that have put together ten consecutive victories, Villa seem strangely fragile – yet right now the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic appears to be to trade blows with the opposition and then rely on Rogers to rescue them with two precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened when facing the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, arced just inside the upright from a wide position. For his second acted as a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents had more shots and more efforts on goal. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those games.

Regression to the mean could be the biggest rival they will encounter in the near future. Rogers, surely, cannot keep on drilling the football into the top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the player he showed during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, but they surely can continue to depend solely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine Rogers now would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like a vital player for the national team.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. When Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.