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A mere two months in the past that Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as his coach berated him over missing a through-ball. At that point, as Villa failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a symptom or the source of the team's wider issues.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response was far more favourable. When the England international swept in his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win their initial half-dozen fixtures, find themselves a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Genuine Challengers?

It remains a rather hard question to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant this season, while the positive results have piled up.

As per the data, twice all season has the side had an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a side that have put together a ten-match winning streak, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – however currently the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic seems to be to trade blows with an opponent before hoping Rogers to bail them out with two clinical strikes. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, curled just inside the upright from the corner of the box. For his second proved to be a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.

“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. In the recent win, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

Regression to the mean may well be the biggest rival they have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on drilling the ball into the net's top corner indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be a different scenario whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins could start finding the net regularly.
• The winger could transform into the force he resembled in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a title challenge, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely earlier this season, no one envisioned Rogers now would be spearheading a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it seems so surreal. As the match-winner stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle leading the celebrations, he seemed to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.