Morgan Rogers' Scoring Streak Propels Villa's Surprising Championship Bid

It was 60 days ago when Morgan Rogers found himself on the Stadium of Light pitch, appearing bewildered while his coach scolded him over not reading a pass in behind. Back then, as Villa endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were an indicator or a cause for the side's broader struggles.

In the latest match, in contrast, the manager's outburst proved to be far more favourable. After the in-form star drilled in his second strike to restore Villa's lead, Emery ripped off his winter coat, threw his arms wide and roared. The team continued to ten wins in a row , having failed to win their opening six games, are somehow just three points off table-toppers Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

That’s an exceptionally difficult query to resolve. History, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Moreover, they have not been completely commanding this season, despite the fact the victories have piled up.

Per the data, on just two occasions has the team registered an expected goals figure more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a club who have put together 10 in a row, Villa seem curiously susceptible – yet at the moment the fine lines are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

The current approach looks like to engage in a shootout with rivals before hoping their star man to bail them out with a couple of precise efforts. This was the case at Leeds, it happened at West Ham, and it happened against Manchester United.

His opener originated from a brilliant finish, bent precisely inside the upright from the edge of the area. The follow-up goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of his first capitalizing on an Ollie Watkins lay-off.

How Long Can This Continue?

Common sense dictates no. Against United, Manchester United had more shots and more direct attempts. Villa have secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all but one of those games.

Regression to the mean might be the most significant challenge they have to face as the season progresses. Their key man, in all likelihood, cannot keep on blasting his shots into the net's top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Could it be an alternative path whereby, instead of outcomes regressing to match displays, performances begin to trend towards results. Key players could still rediscover their best form.

• The centre-forward may begin to finding the net regularly.
• Jadon Sancho could transform into the force he resembled at Borussia Dortmund.
• The injured centre-backs are set to return from injury, strengthening a periodically leaky backline.

Perhaps there is in that the potential for a sustained push, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on one man.

Enjoying the Ride

However, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would sit third at Christmas. And without a doubt back in October, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be leading a title charge while establishing himself as a vital Three Lions star.

This winning streak must be cherished exactly since it feels so unlikely. As the hero positioned himself before the home supporters when the game ended orchestrating the applause, he appeared to be thoroughly enjoying it. Which he fully merits. Such periods are uncommon in the sport and must be appreciated.