This Remarkable Scoring Streak Fuels The Villans' Unlikely Push for Glory

Just two months ago when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused while the Villa manager berated him for not reading a through-ball. At that point, as Villa went six without a win, doubts remained if his performances were a sign or the source of Villa's wider issues.

In the latest match, though, the touchline reaction was entirely decidedly more positive. As Rogers drilled in his second to reinstate the lead for Villa, the boss ripped off his jacket, spread his arms and roared. The Birmingham club continued to a 10th successive win , after failing to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Serious Challengers?

It remains an exceptionally difficult proposition to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, indicates otherwise. Furthermore, they have not been wholly dominant in many games, while the victories have accumulated.

As per the data, twice all season has the team had an expected goals figure notably superior than the other team. For a team that have just won 10 in a row, the Villans look strangely fragile – yet right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to trade blows with an opponent before hoping their talisman to save the day with a couple of clinical strikes. This was the case away to Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and it happened when facing Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal originated from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of the opener as he seized on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, Manchester United managed more shots and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the most significant challenge Villa will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing the ball into the net's top corner forever.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be another reality where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players may yet find their top level.

• Ollie Watkins may begin to adding to his goal tally.
• The winger may rediscover the force he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, strengthening an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would occupy in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers now would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as an essential player for the national team.

The current run is to be savoured exactly since it feels so unlikely. As the hero faced the Villa faithful when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. Such periods do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.