Morgan Rogers' Scoring Streak Fuels Villa's Improbable Push for Glory

A mere 60 days prior when the young forward stood on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him for not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, as the club went six without a win, it wasn't clear if his displays were a symptom or a cause of the side's broader struggles.

This weekend, however, the touchline reaction was entirely much more joyous. When the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss tore off his jacket, spread his arms and bellowed. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, are somehow just three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, while the victories have piled up.

As per the data, in only two games have Villa posted an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a side that have put together ten consecutive victories, they look weirdly vulnerable – but at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their talisman to rescue them with a couple of crisp finishes. This occurred against Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a slight scruffier version of goal number one as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opponents managed more efforts and more efforts on goal. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those games.

Regression to the mean may well be the most significant challenge the club have to face in the near future. Rogers, surely, cannot maintain blasting the ball past despairing goalkeepers forever.

Potential for Growth

Could it be another reality where, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The main striker could start adding to his goal tally.
• The winger may rediscover the performer he showed in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are due to regain fitness, bolstering a periodically leaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the possibility of a genuine bid, but they surely can continue to depend solely on Morgan Rogers.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this is a surprise. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought Rogers now would be leading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. When Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. These spells are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.