The Astonishing Scoring Streak Drives Villa's Improbable Championship Bid

A mere two months in the past that the young forward found himself on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as the Villa manager berated him for failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. At that point, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether his performances were an indicator or the reason for Villa's more general malaise.

In the latest match, in contrast, the touchline reaction was far more favourable. When the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, Emery tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and roared. Villa marched on to a tenth straight victory and despite not winning their opening six fixtures, are somehow just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to answer. The historical record, the traditional standing of the club, argues against it. Moreover, they've rarely been completely commanding in many games, even as the victories have piled up.

Per the data, in only two games has the side posted an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a side that have strung together ten consecutive victories, Villa seem curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the fine lines are swinging for them.

The Rogers Recipe

The current approach seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and wait for their star man to save the day with a couple of crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred against West Ham, and again versus Manchester United.

His opener stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced right inside the goal frame from a wide position. His brace-completing goal acted as a slight scruffier version of his first capitalizing on a setup by his strike partner.

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, Manchester United managed a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. The defence has been breached in nearly all of those matches.

A statistical correction could be the biggest rival they have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, will not continue to thrashing his shots into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Could it be an alternative path whereby, rather than outcomes regressing to match displays, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Vital cogs might still find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume scoring again.
• The attacking talent might become the performer he resembled during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to regain fitness, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on Morgan Rogers.

Savoring the Moment

But then, this was unforeseen. Nobody thought Aston Villa would be in a Champions League place in December. And most definitely earlier this season, nobody thought the young forward as the year closed would be at the forefront of a championship pursuit and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.

The current run must be cherished precisely because it feels so unlikely. When Rogers stood in front of the home supporters at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he appeared to be relishing every moment. Which he fully merits. These runs of form do not happen often and must be appreciated.