Morgan Rogers' Rich Vein of Form Propels Aston Villa's Improbable Championship Bid

It was two months in the past that the Villa attacker stood on the Sunderland turf, looking confused as Unai Emery berated him over failing to anticipate a penetrating pass. Back then, with the team went six without a win, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a sign or a cause of the side's wider issues.

This weekend, in contrast, the touchline reaction was decidedly more positive. After the in-form star curled home his brace-sealing goal to reclaim the lead for Villa, Emery discarded his jacket, threw his arms wide and bellowed. The Birmingham club continued to a tenth straight victory and having failed to win any of their first six fixtures, are somehow just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Hopefuls?

It remains a particularly tough query to resolve. Past precedent, the perceived status of this institution, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been entirely convincing in many games, while the positive results have stacked up.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the other team. For a club who have just won ten consecutive victories, the Villans look strangely fragile – yet at the moment the tight outcomes are going in their favour.

The Rogers Recipe

The prevailing tactic appears to be to engage in a shootout with rivals and wait for their star man to save the day with some clinical strikes. It happened against Leeds, it happened in London, and once more against the Red Devils.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, arced right inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal was essentially a somewhat messier replica of goal number one capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. In the recent win, Manchester United registered more shots and more direct attempts. They have won each of their last eight by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

A reversion to average could be the biggest rival they have to face as the season progresses. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing his shots into the net's top corner forever.

A Case for Belief

Perhaps there is an alternative path in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players might still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to finding the net regularly.
• The attacking talent might become the performer he showed during his peak.
• The injured centre-backs are due to come back from the treatment room, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.

This could contain the seeds for a sustained push, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

Yet, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable Villa would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be spearheading a hunt for the title and appearing as a crucial England player.

The current run should be enjoyed for the very reason that it seems so surreal. As the hero stood in front of the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be loving the experience. As he deserves to. These spells do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.