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Just eight weeks prior when the Villa attacker was standing on the pitch at Sunderland, looking confused as Unai Emery scolded him over failing to anticipate a through-ball. At that point, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, it wasn't clear whether Rogers' form were a symptom or a cause for the team's broader struggles.

“When Rogers netted his second… Emery tore off his coat, threw his arms wide, and bellowed in delight.”

On Sunday, in contrast, the touchline reaction was entirely decidedly more positive. After the England international swept in his second to restore the lead for Villa, the Spanish tactician tore off his winter coat, opened his arms and shouted in triumph. Villa marched on to ten wins in a row and having failed to win their initial half-dozen matches, are somehow only three points off the leaders Arsenal.

Is This Team Genuine Challengers?

That’s a particularly tough proposition to answer. History, the perceived status of Villa, indicates otherwise. Moreover, their performances haven't been wholly dominant in many games, even as the victories have accumulated.

As per the data, on just two occasions have Villa had an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a club that have put together 10 in a row, they look strangely fragile – yet currently the margins are swinging for them.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to trade blows with rivals and then rely on Rogers to save the day with two precise efforts. This was the case against Leeds, it transpired at West Ham, and once more versus Manchester United.

The initial strike came from an exquisite effort, bent precisely inside the post from a wide position. The follow-up goal proved to be a somewhat messier replica of his first as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“Perhaps Rogers’ right foot is becoming like Arjen Robben’s left: just because you know he’s going to whip the ball into the top corner doesn’t mean you can stop him.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United had more shots and more efforts on goal. They have triumphed in eight consecutive games by the narrowest of margins. The defence has been breached in all except one of those games.

A statistical correction may well be the greatest opponent they have to face in the near future. Rogers, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the ball into the top corner indefinitely.

A Case for Belief

Could it be a different scenario in which, rather than results trending towards performances, the level of play rises to match the results. Key players may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward might resume finding the net regularly.
• The winger could transform into the player he showed at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to come back from the treatment room, bolstering a periodically leaky defensive unit.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a title challenge, but they surely can continue to depend solely on one man.

Relishing the Unlikely

However, this was unforeseen. Few believed the team would occupy in the top three for the holidays. And certainly back in October, nobody thought the young forward by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a hunt for the title and appearing as an essential player for the national team.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. When the hero stood in front of the home supporters after the match leading the celebrations, he seemed to be thoroughly enjoying it. As he deserves to. These spells are rare in football and should be relished.