This Remarkable Rich Vein of Form Propels The Villans' Unlikely Title Charge

Just eight weeks prior that Morgan Rogers was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, seeming perplexed as the Villa manager admonished him for missing a through-ball. During that period, as Villa failed to win in six, doubts remained if his performances were a sign or the reason for the side's broader struggles.

This weekend, in contrast, the manager's outburst was entirely far more favourable. After Rogers swept in his brace-sealing goal to restore his side's advantage, the boss tore off his jacket, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. The team continued to a 10th successive win , having failed to win their opening six matches, find themselves just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?

This is an exceptionally difficult question to address. The historical record, a general sense of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been wholly dominant in many games, even as the wins have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, twice all season has the side registered an xG significantly higher than the other team. For a side who have strung together a ten-match winning streak, they look strangely fragile – yet right now the tight outcomes are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The prevailing tactic looks like to trade blows with an opponent and wait for Rogers to bail them out with two crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it occurred in London, and again when facing United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a brilliant finish, bent just inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal acted as a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, the opponents had more shots and more efforts on goal. The team has secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival they have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, surely, will not continue to blasting his shots into the net's top corner week in, week out.

Reasons for Optimism

Perhaps there is a different scenario in which, instead of luck running out, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players could still find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger might become the performer he resembled in Germany.
• The defensive duo are due to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a sometimes shaky defence.

Perhaps there is in that the seeds of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable can continue to depend solely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. Nobody thought the team would sit in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt earlier this season, no one envisioned the young forward now would be spearheading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as an essential player for the national team.

The current run must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. When the match-winner positioned himself before the Villa faithful at the final whistle conducting the cheers, it was clear to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These runs of form are uncommon in the sport and should be relished.