This Remarkable Rich Vein of Form Drives The Villans' Improbable Title Charge

Just eight weeks ago when the young forward found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while his coach scolded him for not reading a pass in behind. At that point, with the team failed to win in six, it wasn't clear whether his performances were a symptom or a cause of Villa's broader struggles.

On Sunday, though, the manager's outburst was decidedly more positive. After Rogers curled home his second strike to reclaim Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his coat, opened his arms and roared. Villa continued to ten wins in a row and after failing to win their opening six matches, find themselves only three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to answer. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been entirely convincing this season, despite the fact the wins have piled up.

According to statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the opposition. For a team who have put together a ten-match winning streak, they look strangely fragile – however currently the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach appears to be to trade blows with rivals and wait for Rogers to save the day with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it happened against West Ham, and once more against United.

The initial strike stemmed from a superb shot, curled right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of the opener capitalizing on a pass from Watkins.

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, the opposition had more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by a single goal. They’ve conceded in all except one of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the biggest rival they have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, cannot keep on drilling the ball into the top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is another reality where, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Key players could still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he was in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Enjoying the Ride

Yet, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable the team would be third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, few could imagine the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a crucial England player.

This winning streak must be cherished precisely because it appears so improbable. As Rogers positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle conducting the cheers, it was clear to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.