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It was two months in the past that the Villa attacker was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed while the Villa manager scolded him over missing a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team failed to win in six, the question was if Rogers' form were an indicator or the reason of Villa's wider issues.

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

In the latest match, however, the touchline reaction was entirely decidedly more positive. As the England international swept in his second strike to reclaim his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and shouted in triumph. The team continued to a 10th successive win and despite not winning their opening six fixtures, now sit a mere three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Serious Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been entirely convincing during this run, while the wins have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games has the side registered an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a club that have just won 10 in a row, they appear weirdly vulnerable – yet currently the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with the opposition before hoping Rogers to rescue them with some crisp finishes. This was the case away to Leeds, it happened in London, and once more against United.

The initial strike originated from an exquisite effort, curled right inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of goal number one capitalizing 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.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents managed more efforts and more shots on target. The team has triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those games.

A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent the club have to face over the coming weeks. Their key man, surely, cannot keep on thrashing the football into the top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still return to peak condition.

• The main striker could start scoring again.
• The winger may rediscover the player he resembled during his peak.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres will eventually return from injury, bolstering a periodically leaky defensive unit.

This could contain the possibility of a title challenge, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, nobody thought the young forward now would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as an essential England player.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As the match-winner positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. Which he fully merits. Such periods do not happen often and should be relished.