This Remarkable Golden Spell Propels Aston Villa's Unlikely Push for Glory

Just 60 days in the past that Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, seeming perplexed as Unai Emery scolded him for missing a through-ball. During that period, with the team went six without a win, the question was whether Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause of the side's broader struggles.

On Sunday, in contrast, the sideline response proved to be much more joyous. As the in-form star swept in his brace-sealing goal to reinstate Villa's lead, Emery tore off his winter coat, spread his arms and roared. The team continued to a tenth straight victory , despite not winning their initial half-dozen games, are somehow only three points off pace-setters Arsenal.

Is This Team Legitimate Challengers?

This is a rather hard query to answer. The historical record, the perceived status of Villa, suggests not. Moreover, they've rarely been wholly dominant in many games, while the victories have stacked up.

According to statistical analysis, on just two occasions has the side had an expected goals figure significantly higher than the other team. For a side who have just won a ten-match winning streak, the Villans seem curiously susceptible – but right now the fine lines are falling their way.

The Winning Formula

The current approach appears to be to exchange chances with the opposition and wait for their talisman to rescue them with some crisp finishes. This was the case against Leeds, it happened in London, and once more against United.

The initial strike came from a brilliant finish, curled right inside the goal frame from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first as he pounced on a pass from Watkins.

Is It Sustainable?

Common sense dictates no. During the latest victory, Manchester United had a greater number of attempts and more efforts on goal. The team has secured their last eight victories by a single goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those matches.

A statistical correction may well be the biggest rival Villa must confront over the coming weeks. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot maintain thrashing the football into the top corner forever.

Potential for Growth

Perhaps there is a different scenario whereby, rather than results trending towards performances, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures might still rediscover their best form.

• Ollie Watkins might resume finding the net regularly.
• The winger could transform into the force he was in Germany.
• Tyrone Mings and Pau Torres are set to return from injury, bolstering an occasionally vulnerable defensive unit.

Maybe within that lies the possibility for a sustained push, but they surely cannot keep relying on a single individual.

Savoring the Moment

But then, nobody expected this. Nobody thought Aston Villa would sit in the top three for the holidays. And certainly two months ago, few could imagine Rogers by the end of the year would be at the forefront of a title charge while looking like a crucial Three Lions star.

This winning streak should be enjoyed for the very reason that it appears so improbable. As the match-winner stood in front of the North End at the final whistle leading the celebrations, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. These runs of form do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.