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It was 60 days ago that Morgan Rogers stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while Unai Emery scolded him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his displays were an indicator or the reason for the side's more general malaise.

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

In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst was much more joyous. After the England international swept in his brace-sealing goal to reclaim the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician ripped off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa marched on to a 10th successive win , despite not winning any of their first six games, now sit only three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Hopefuls?

This is an exceptionally difficult proposition to resolve. History, the traditional standing of the club, suggests not. Additionally, they've rarely been entirely convincing in many games, while the victories have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, twice all season have Villa registered an xG notably superior than the other team. For a team which has strung together ten consecutive victories, the Villans seem strangely fragile – however currently the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with rivals before hoping their star man to rescue them with some precise efforts. It happened away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and again when facing Manchester United.

The initial strike originated from a brilliant finish, bent precisely inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. Against United, the opposition registered more efforts and more direct attempts. They have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.

A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent the club will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, cannot keep on blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The defensive duo will eventually come back from the treatment room, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.

Maybe within that lies the seeds for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned the midfielder now would be leading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a vital player for the national team.

This winning streak must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the hero faced the home supporters at the final whistle orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.