The Astonishing Golden Spell Drives The Villans' Surprising Championship Bid

Just 60 days in the past when the Villa attacker stood on the pitch at Sunderland, appearing bewildered as his coach scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear if his performances were an indicator or a cause for the side's broader struggles.

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction proved to be far more favourable. When the in-form star drilled in his second to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician discarded his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. The team continued to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win any of their first six games, now sit a mere three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Hopefuls?

This is a particularly tough question to answer. Past precedent, a general sense of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, even as the wins have piled up.

As per statistical analysis, on just two occasions have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than their opponents. For a side which has strung together 10 in a row, the Villans appear strangely fragile – yet right now the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic appears to be to exchange chances with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

His opener stemmed from a superb shot, arced just inside the upright from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

How Long Can This Continue?

Logic says not. During the latest victory, the opponents managed a greater number of attempts and more direct attempts. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those fixtures.

A statistical correction might be the most significant challenge the club have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on thrashing his shots past despairing goalkeepers forever.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is another reality whereby, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Vital cogs may yet rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins could start scoring again.
• The winger may rediscover the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to come back from the treatment room, fortifying a sometimes shaky backline.

This could contain the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable can persist in leaning entirely on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.

This winning streak is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As Rogers faced the Villa faithful after the match leading the celebrations, he appeared to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.