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A mere two months in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery scolded him over not reading a penetrating pass. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, the question was if his displays were a sign or the source of the team's wider issues.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be decidedly more positive. After the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss discarded his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their opening six matches, find themselves only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Serious Title Contenders?

This is a rather hard proposition to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of the club, argues against it. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant this season, even as the wins have piled up.

According to Opta, on just two occasions has the team had an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a club who have just won a ten-match winning streak, they seem weirdly vulnerable – however right now the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with rivals and wait for their talisman to rescue them with some precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

The initial strike stemmed from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced 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. Against United, the opponents registered a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all except one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction may well be the most significant challenge they have to face in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing the ball into the top corner indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Could it be a different scenario whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures could still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent could transform into the force he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to regain fitness, fortifying a periodically leaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, yet it seems unlikely can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, nobody thought the young forward now would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial Three Lions star.

This remarkable period is to be savoured for the very reason that it seems so surreal. When the match-winner stood in front of the Villa faithful at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These spells are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.