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It was two months in the past that the young forward found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, looking confused as the Villa manager admonished him over not reading a penetrating pass. During that period, with the team went six without a win, doubts remained if his performances were a sign or the reason of Villa's more general malaise.

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

This weekend, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be decidedly more positive. As the in-form star drilled in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate his side's advantage, the Spanish tactician tore off his jacket, spread his arms and shouted in triumph. The team continued to a tenth straight victory , after failing to win their opening six games, now sit only three points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Legitimate Challengers?

That’s an exceptionally difficult question to address. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding during this run, even as the wins have piled up.

As per statistical analysis, in only two games have Villa posted an xG significantly higher than the opposition. For a side which has just won 10 in a row, Villa look curiously susceptible – however at the moment the fine lines are falling their way.

The Reliant Strategy

Their recent policy looks like to exchange chances with rivals and then rely on their star man to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. It happened at Leeds, it occurred at West Ham, and again versus United.

Rogers' first goal stemmed from a superb shot, bent just inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal acted as a slightly less clean iteration of his first as he seized on a setup by his strike partner.

“Much like Robben with his left, Rogers’ right foot has become a known threat that remains brutally unstoppable, regardless of anticipation.”

Can It Last?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, the opponents registered more efforts and more shots on target. They have secured their last eight victories by the narrowest of margins. They’ve conceded in all but one of those games.

A reversion to average may well be the biggest rival Villa must confront as the season progresses. Rogers, almost certainly, will not continue to drilling the football past despairing goalkeepers week in, week out.

Potential for Growth

Maybe there exists a different scenario in which, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, the level of play rises to match the results. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The main striker might resume adding to his goal tally.
• The winger could transform into the force he was during his peak.
• The defensive duo are due to return from injury, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.

This could contain the potential of a genuine bid, however, it is improbable cannot keep relying on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this is a surprise. It seemed improbable Aston Villa would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt back in October, nobody thought the young forward now would be leading a championship pursuit while establishing himself as a vital England player.

This remarkable period is to be savoured precisely because it seems so surreal. When the match-winner faced the North End when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be relishing every moment. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and should be relished.