Morgan Rogers' Golden Spell Drives The Villans' Surprising Title Charge

Just eight weeks ago when the young forward was standing on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as his coach berated him for failing to anticipate a pass in behind. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his displays were a sign or a cause of Villa's broader struggles.

This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. After Rogers curled home his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. Villa were on their way to a tenth straight victory , having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, find themselves a mere three points behind pace-setters Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?

This is a rather hard query to answer. Past precedent, the traditional standing of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding during this run, while the positive results have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, twice all season have Villa registered an xG notably superior than their opponents. For a side who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, they appear curiously susceptible – however right now the margins are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic seems to be to exchange chances with an opponent and wait for Rogers to save the day with two clinical strikes. This occurred away to Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again versus Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, curled just inside the post from the corner of the box. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

Is It Sustainable?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, the opponents managed more shots and more direct attempts. The team has secured their last eight victories by a single goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those games.

A statistical correction might be the greatest opponent the club have to face as the season progresses. The forward, surely, cannot maintain blasting his shots into the top corner week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is an alternative path where, instead of results trending towards performances, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures may yet rediscover their best form.

• The main striker may begin to scoring again.
• Jadon Sancho might become the force he showed during his peak.
• The defensive duo are due to return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable defence.

This could contain the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, nobody expected this. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, nobody thought the midfielder now would be spearheading a hunt for the title while establishing himself as an essential Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed exactly since it appears so improbable. When Rogers stood in front of the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he seemed to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These spells do not happen often and should be relished.