The Astonishing Scoring Streak Drives Villa's Unlikely Push for Glory

Just 60 days ago that the Villa attacker found himself on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused while his coach berated him for missing a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained if his performances were a sign or the reason of the team's wider issues.

In the latest match, in contrast, the sideline response was entirely decidedly more positive. As Rogers drilled in his second to reinstate his side's advantage, the boss ripped off his coat, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The team continued to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their opening six games, find themselves a mere three points behind the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Title Contenders?

That’s a particularly tough question to address. History, the perceived status of Villa, argues against it. Moreover, their performances haven't been completely commanding in many games, even as the victories have accumulated.

Per statistical analysis, twice all season has the team registered an xG more than 0.5 greater than their opponents. For a team that have put together a ten-match winning streak, Villa appear strangely fragile – however currently the margins are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

Their recent policy looks like to trade blows with the opposition and wait for their star man to rescue them with two crisp finishes. This occurred away to Leeds, it transpired against West Ham, and once more versus the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the goal frame from the corner of the box. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United had more efforts and more direct attempts. Villa have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in nearly all of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the most significant challenge Villa have to face over the coming weeks. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the ball past despairing goalkeepers indefinitely.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists another reality whereby, rather than luck running out, performances begin to trend towards results. Important figures might still return to peak condition.

• The main striker may begin to finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho may rediscover the performer he was in Germany.
• The defensive duo will eventually regain fitness, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

Yet, this was unforeseen. Few believed Aston Villa would occupy third at Christmas. And without a doubt earlier this season, nobody thought Rogers now would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial Three Lions star.

The current run is to be savoured precisely because it appears so improbable. As the hero positioned himself before the North End at the final whistle conducting the cheers, he seemed to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and ought to be celebrated.