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It was eight weeks ago that Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, appearing bewildered while the Villa manager admonished him over missing a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a sign or the reason for Villa's wider issues.

“Following Rogers' second strike… Emery discarded his jacket, extended his arms, and let out a triumphant roar.”

On Sunday, though, the sideline response proved to be far more favourable. After the in-form star drilled in his second strike to restore Villa's lead, the Spanish tactician ripped off his jacket, threw his arms wide and roared. The Birmingham club marched on to a tenth straight victory and after failing to win their opening six games, are somehow only three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Are They Legitimate Challengers?

It remains a rather hard question to address. Past precedent, the traditional standing of Villa, argues against it. Furthermore, they've rarely been wholly dominant this season, despite the fact the victories have accumulated.

According to Opta, in only two games have Villa posted an xG significantly higher than their opponents. For a side which has just won a ten-match winning streak, Villa look weirdly vulnerable – yet at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to engage in a shootout with the opposition before hoping Rogers to save the day with a couple of precise efforts. This occurred at Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and again versus United.

The initial strike stemmed from a brilliant finish, arced precisely inside the post from the edge of the area. For his second proved to be a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

Can It Last?

Reason suggests otherwise. During the latest victory, the opponents had more efforts and more efforts on goal. Villa have triumphed in eight consecutive games by just one goal. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.

A statistical correction could be the greatest opponent Villa must confront as the season progresses. The forward, in all likelihood, cannot keep on drilling the ball into the top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Could it be a different scenario whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Vital cogs could still find their top level.

• The main striker might resume finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent could transform into the performer he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo are set to return from injury, strengthening a sometimes shaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a genuine bid, but they surely cannot keep relying on one man.

Savoring the Moment

However, this is a surprise. Few believed Villa would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, few could imagine the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as a crucial player for the national team.

This remarkable period must be cherished for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero positioned himself before the North End when the game ended leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.