This Remarkable Rich Vein of Form Drives Villa's Unlikely Championship Bid

A mere two months ago when Morgan Rogers found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as his coach berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained if Rogers' form were an indicator or the source of the team's broader struggles.

This weekend, however, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. As the in-form star swept in his second strike to restore his side's advantage, Emery discarded his winter coat, opened his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six games, are somehow a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Serious Title Contenders?

That’s a rather hard proposition to answer. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, even as the wins have stacked up.

Per statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa posted an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a side that have strung together 10 in a row, the Villans appear curiously susceptible – however at the moment the tight outcomes are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for their star man to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This was the case at Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the upright from a wide position. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opposition had more shots and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average may well be the greatest opponent they must confront as the season progresses. The forward, surely, cannot keep on drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be an alternative path whereby, rather than luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still rediscover their best form.

• The main striker might resume scoring again.
• The winger might become the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable backline.

This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

However, nobody expected this. Few believed the team would occupy third at Christmas. And most definitely two months ago, nobody thought Rogers as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential England player.

This remarkable period must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. When the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful after the match orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.