Morgan Rogers' Scoring Streak Fuels The Villans' Unlikely Push for Glory

Just 60 days ago when the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused while his coach berated him over missing a penetrating pass. Back then, as the club failed to win in six, the question was if his displays were a symptom or the source of the team's more general malaise.

In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response was entirely much more joyous. When Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, Emery tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a 10th successive win and after failing to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Hopefuls?

That’s a rather hard question to address. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, argues against it. Additionally, they have not been wholly dominant during this run, even as the victories have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the team had an expected goals figure notably superior than their opponents. For a team who have put together ten consecutive victories, they look curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and then rely on their star man to save the day with some precise efforts. It happened against Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened against United.

His opener came from an exquisite effort, arced just inside the upright from a wide position. For his second was essentially a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. The team has won each of their last eight by a single goal. The defence has been breached in all but one of those fixtures.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to blasting the football into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is an alternative path where, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the player he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, fortifying a sometimes shaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would sit in a Champions League place in December. And certainly back in October, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like an essential player for the national team.

This remarkable period should be enjoyed exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the hero stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. As he deserves to. These spells are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.