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It was two months in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery scolded him over missing a through-ball. At that point, as the club went six without a win, the question was whether Rogers' form were a sign or the reason of Villa's broader struggles.

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

On Sunday, though, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. As the England international swept in his second to reclaim Villa's lead, Emery discarded his coat, opened his arms and roared. The team continued to a 10th successive win , having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow a mere three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Challengers?

That’s a particularly tough query to resolve. The historical record, the traditional standing of this institution, suggests not. Furthermore, their performances haven't been completely commanding this season, while the positive results have piled up.

According to the data, twice all season has the team had an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a team which has put together 10 in a row, the Villans appear strangely fragile – however at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

The prevailing tactic appears to be to engage in a shootout with the opposition and wait for their talisman to bail them out with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired in London, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

The initial strike came from a superb shot, curled precisely inside the upright from the edge of the area. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slightly less clean iteration of goal number one as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opponents registered more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.

A statistical correction might be the greatest opponent Villa must confront over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot keep on drilling his shots past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario where, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• The attacking talent might become the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The defensive duo are due to return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.

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

Savoring the Moment

However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, no one envisioned Rogers now would be spearheading a title charge while establishing himself as a crucial player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed precisely because it feels so unlikely. When the hero stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. These spells are rare in football and must be appreciated.